THE Hwange Local Board (HLB) has announced the development of a brand-new central business dstrict (CBD), a long-awaited greenfield project aimed at reshaping the town’s commercial, administrative, and service delivery landscape.
The transformative initiative, which has been in the conceptual phase for nearly a decade, is now gaining structured momentum following a recent council resolution that sets in motion detailed planning and execution.
Hwange town secretary, Ndumiso Mdlalose, said the project has entered the layout design stage, with a formal submission to be made to the Department of Physical Planning for approval.
This will run concurrently with a comprehensive site survey, and the preparation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to ensure compliance with national environmental and sustainability regulations.
“The new central business district is a critical step forward in Hwange’s vision to become a modern, organised and investor-friendly urban hub,” Mdlalose said.
“We are no longer at the idea stage — this is a structured development process.”
At the centre of the proposed CBD will be HLB’s new civic centre, and will house core administrative and governance functions.
The broader development will include government offices, public service facilities, retail and commercial centres, financial service infrastructure as well as recreational and green spaces.
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According to Mdlalose, the overarching goal is to attract both public and private investment into key infrastructure that will support the town’s long-term urban growth.
“This is a true greenfield development — we are working on previously undeveloped land, which offers immense opportunity for proper urban planning and sustainable development,” Mdlalose said.
While the total project cost is yet to be determined, the HLB says investment levels will depend on the scale and nature of infrastructure brought in by interested stakeholders.
Mdlalose said the board was inviting both local and international investors to participate through public-private partnerships and other strategic collaborations.
Previously, some institutions and organisations had shown interest and even occupied parts of the proposed site.
However, most of those developments were halted after failing to meet planning standards set by the Department of Physical Planning.
Only one development — spearheaded by a global financial services firm — was approved.
“This time, the process will be guided strictly by formal planning approvals to ensure the CBD meets modern urban standards,” Mdlalose said.
He said once the layout and site surveys are finalised and approved, the board will proceed to open investor engagements and issue tender notices.
“This CBD isn’t just about buildings — it’s about shaping the future of Hwange.
“We’re creating space for commerce, governance, service delivery, and community life to flourish in a well-planned, modern environment,” Mdlalose added.
