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If quiet, leafy suburbia holds a special place in your heart, or you’re looking for the ideal place to raise a family, Plumstead is bound to be near the top of your list, says resident Philip Gordon.
“Plumstead really is about families. I grew up in the area, and after living all over the Western Cape, it has a unique air of wholesomeness and community,” he says.
“One of my favourite memories, from when I was eight, is riding my BMX bike up to Prospur to get hot, fresh rolls for Saturday morning breakfast. Now, with a son of my own, I’m looking forward to him doing something similar when he’s older.”
The history books indicate the land, named “rust” (rest) and “werk” (work) by Dutch settlers and free burghers Hendrick Jergens and Johan Barrens, was first mentioned in 1762. When Englishman Henry Batt bought the farm in 1807, he renamed it Plumstead after a district in London.
If you are you an investor, first-time buyer or a family unit looking for stability and good schools, this is a fine place to call home. - Mark Lewis, Just Property Sales Manager for Constantiaberg.
Picture: Supplied
Today it is one of the largest suburbs in Cape Town and consists largely of houses built in the 1940s and 1950s, complemented by modern residences. Mark Lewis, Just Property sales manager for Constantiaberg, says: “Always popular, this area has undergone major changes in respect of residential living.
“Along every street one sees renovations and upgrades. The annual turnover in residential sales is one of the highest in greater Cape Town. The proximity of good schools, nestling on the northern slopes of Table Mountain, is a primary factor driving property value.”
Investors, young families and first-time buyers all actively rotate through this area, creating constant demand, says Lewis. Community safety is taken seriously and the area is known for its active Neighbourhood Watch chapter, says Gordon.
“The area is home to a number of good schools, and Plumstead High has produced three national cricket players, namely Paul Adams, JP Duminy and Rory Kleinveldt.
“Commuting in and out of the area is easy, with access to major routes from the southern suburbs into the CBD, and plenty of public transport options available. Plumstead may not appeal to the young and upwardly mobile as much as those looking to build a lifetime of memories and magic times.” says Gordon.
Lewis says steady demand and high rentals attract investor landlords and maintain high property values. Entry level for a two-bedroom sectional title unit begins at R1.1 million, and a comfortable family home on a decent size stand will cost about R2.3m.
“A core of long-established residents – more than half of current owners – who have upgraded their properties over the years provides a stable backdrop for steady growth,” he says.
Gabriel Place is home to offices and shops, with public parking behind the building. Picture: Tracey Adams/African News Agency (ANA)
The mountainside of the M5 has become prime residential real estate, and Plumstead is perfectly positioned for this, with buyers in the 18- to 35-year-old range comprising 30% of all sales.
“Second investment homes are also common with many owners having two or more properties in the same area,” says Lewis. “If you are an investor, first-time buyer or a family unit looking for stability and good schools, this is a fine place to call home.
Place to go and things to do in Plumstead
Plumstead may not appeal to the young and upwardly mobile as much as those looking to build a lifetime of memories and magic times. - Philip Gordon, resident with his son. Picture: Supplied
1 Eat
“Looking for the best fish and chips in Cape Town? Plumstead Fisheries (021797 9432) opened in the 1950s and remains a family favourite,” says Gordon. “Keen for some quality entertainment and the best steak in the south? Pirates is where you’ll find both.” Locals affectionately refer to it as “The Ritz”. Call 021 797 5659.
2 Drink
One of Plumstead’s little secrets, High Tea is a café tucked away in a pretty garden. It serves breakfast, lunch and an array of homemade cakes. And tea, of course. Call 021 797 1421.
Pirates Steakhouse and Pub in Main Road. The suburb has a large CBD area with motor dealers, major restaurants, nightclubs, shopping centres and fast food outlets. Picture: Tracey Adams/African News Agency (ANA
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3 Shop
The Main Road hub in Plumstead has a range of small shops and a variety of businesses, with Checkers and Pick n Pay providing the big supermarket options. There’s another, larger Pick n Pay at Constantia Village at the other end of Doordrift Road where you will find more high-end shops.
4 Parks
“The area has plenty of parks and green spaces. The park in Lympleigh Road has always been a favourite place to take the children or the pooches, or just to have a run. Another favourite is the park in St Joans Road,” says Gordon.