May
2017
Taking a drive through the suburb of Irene
it is apparent or even blatantly obvious that this leafy suburb has a history
which is not only locked up in the original farm which was established in 1895,
but the surroundings in general.
The original farm which is still in
existence was the inspiration for the prestigious Irene Farm Villages Estate
catering for the well-heeled property investors. The tranquility and laid back
lifestyle of Irene has washed over to the estate which is ultra-laid back but
there is no pretense here that money is in shortage. For the residents the
security is of utmost importance and as in other estates there is a 24-hour
manned access control point and secure perimeter walls.
The architecture of the homes tends to lean
towards the English Country homes in the same palatial proportions with
landscaped gardens and stately homes.
There are a total of 650 homes in the
estate with a few vacant stands still available.
The directors charged with the running of
the estates affairs have also taken a keen interest in preserving the nature in
establishing conservation areas as part of the aesthetics of the estate, with a
large number of small mammals like mongoose, scrub hares and duiker and bird
species, frequently observed while taking a leisurely stroll in the pristine
grounds. Naturally the estate is still finding its proverbial roots and once
the landscaped gardens are established the estate will be a mirror of the
region.
The residents in the estate are privileged
to have access to reputable private and public schools such as Village Waldorf
School, Cornwall Hill College, Southdowns College and Irene Middle School.
The residents are spoilt when it comes to
retail and entertainment with the Rietvlei Dam on the doorstep and malls such
as Irene Village Mall.