SAPOA's 2013 Excellence in Property Development Awards attract record entries

SAPOA CEO Neil Gopal says the marked growth in entries displays the cutting-edge innovation and world-class quality that South African property developers are delivering.

A record 38 entries have been received across 10 categories for the SAPOA Awards for Innovative Excellence in Property Development 2013, with winners to be announced at the 45th annual SAPOA International Convention and Property Exhibition.

This shows growing competitiveness and confidence from South Africa’s property developers, with this year’s entries significantly higher than the 23 received in 2012.

SAPOA CEO Neil Gopal says: “The marked growth in entries displays the cutting-edge innovation and world-class quality that South African property developers are delivering. It is also a good sign that green shoots of a gradual recovery are starting to come through for the sector, marked by more new property developments. Importantly shows that property development remains a healthy, active sector of the South African economy.”

Gopal explains that property development is a driver of economic growth in any free-market economy. “Groundbreaking solutions to property development are a springboard to economic success and this is why excellence in this field is so important. The SAPOA Excellence Awards not only acknowledge innovation, but also encourage it.”

The awards honour innovators who contribute significantly to strengthening the property industry in South Africa. Sponsored by PD Naidoo & Associates, Crane QS, Encha Properties, Standard Bank, Dube Trade Port and Remote Metering Solutions, the awards will be presented at the 45th annual SAPOA International Convention and Property Exhibition, which takes place on 14-16 May 2013 at Sun City.

Meanwhile, the panel of expert judges have their work cut out for them with the exceptional scope and quality of the submissions.

“Economic viability, the meeting of both investor and user needs, as well as architectural appeal and functionality are all considered,” explains Pieter Engelbrecht, Chairperson of the SAPOA Awards Committee. “In short, the SAPOA Awards recognise developments that enhance their location in an integrated way and effectively identify and address the urban challenge and any direct impacts that it might have on communities and the environment”.
 
This year, entries were open to developments in ten project categories and three overall awards. Eligible sectors include office, retail, industrial, residential and mixed-use. Other categories consider heritage projects, refurbishments and innovative solutions – and even international projects outside of Southern Africa.

“All entries are evaluated for the overall awards which include the Transformation Award, Green Award, and Overall Winner,” adds Engelbrecht.