AboutTime no 41 | Page 2

GENERAL NEWS From the MD’s desk By Sandy Kelly The dilemma facing many of us in 2020 and the next few years in Gaborone With work already started on the western bypass intersections being converted from roundabouts to fly-overs, we are heading for a chaotic couple of years in terms of traffic. The second issue many of us are already having to deal with is the access and egress to the New CBD, which is already chaotic in the mornings and evenings. Well, the blessings are that the western bypass intersections will be much better in a few years and if the call for bids for the intersections surrounding the New CBD leads to something concrete, the problem should be alleviated. So now the dilemma: “Where should you be looking to locate your business?” If you live in Gabs North or Phakalane and can conduct most of your business from the office or by visiting the city centre during the course of the day, then Setlhoa is tailor made for you. As it develops rapidly into one of the city’s prime nodes including offices, retail, residential and small business showrooms/warehouses, it is exactly what you need. If your business is in the southern part of town, like Commerce Park or Kgale, do not despair as, once the roads are finished, then it will again be a prime location which can only expand further south and westwards in the long term. You may think of opening a second outlet as did Motor Centre and CTM/Italtile who are already in Setlhoa or relocating for the next couple of years. The dilemma of the New CBD Well yes, we are going to have to live with traffic congestion for the next couple of years – and it will get worse! But, if your business calls for being located there as it is most definitely the central business district now, as opposed to the Main Mall. For example, with most of the banks having established their head offices there, those that are not, may wish ABOUT TIME, the quarterly newsletter of Time Projects Editor: Brett Marlin to consider it. It won’t be too long – five or ten years goes quickly – and we may well find that all the vacant plots are fully developed. The New CBD is without a doubt already the most prime office location in Gaborone which will stay that way for a long time, if not for ever. Of course, the Main Mall will always be good because many businesses rely on government and its employees, so would want to be close to the Government Enclave which will always be there for the foreseeable planning future. And, the prime residential areas of Ext 9 & 11, plus the university, stadium and schools are there. And what about the Fairgrounds? That is not so much of a dilemma at all. With the majority of the major accounting firms and insurance companies based there, as a financial services centre, it will always be in strong demand and a great location if you are in that business. What is NOT a dilemma, is that we here at Time Projects are here to serve your every need - we can offer you space in all these locations, whether it be to rent or to buy, we have it. And, of course we are your number one stop for development. Don’t hesitate to come and chat to us or your trusted property advisor about your needs. Managing editor: Faye-Marie Cloete Email: [email protected] Cell: +267 7137 6232 Contributors: Sandy Kelly, Brett Marlin, Julien Matoka, Kagiso Sebetso, Mmika Selei, Roy Mapharing, Heinrich Malan, Joe Simpson Tel: +267 395 6080 | Fax: +267 390 0160 | Email: [email protected] | Website: www.time.co.bw ABOUT TIME is published on behalf of Time Projects by Nova Communications (Pty) Ltd. The opinions expressed in this newsletter are those of the authors and people interviewed and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor, publisher or Time Projects. While all precautions have been taken to ensure accuracy of information, the editors and publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies which may inadvertently have occurred. 2 ISSUE 41 - MARCH 2020