Boomed Areas in Centurion Explained
Boomed areas, also known as access-controlled residential zones, are a prominent feature of suburban living in Centurion.
These areas restrict vehicle and pedestrian entry through guard stations or electronic access points and are popular in suburbs where residents prioritise security, reduced traffic, and a strong sense of community.
This guide explains how boomed areas work, where they are located in Centurion, their legal standing, and the benefits and trade-offs for residents and buyers.
What Is a Boomed Area?
A boomed area is a residential zone in which public roads are closed off using access-controlled entrances and exits.
Typically:
- Entrances are managed by security guards or automated gates
- Entry is restricted to residents, approved guests, and service providers
- Residents pay monthly contributions for maintenance and security costs
Boomed areas are not gated estates, but rather sections of open suburbs that have opted for collective security under the oversight of local government bylaws.
Legal Status in South Africa
Booming a public road is not automatically allowed.
The process must comply with:
- The Gauteng Local Government Ordinance (No. 17 of 1939)
- Municipal road closure policies (administered by the City of Tshwane in Centurion)
A Residents’ Association must:
- Apply to the municipality with a road closure motivation
- Demonstrate majority community support (often >67%)
- Provide a traffic impact assessment and safety plan
- Renew the application periodically (usually every 2–3 years)
Boom structures must allow access for emergency services and may not block public transit routes.
Why Residents Create Boomed Areas
Boomed streets typically emerge in older, open suburbs where:
- There is a spike in break-ins or hijackings
- Residents want to preserve a suburban atmosphere
- Through traffic or loitering has become a nuisance
- CPF groups and private patrols need access control
Booming an area often coincides with the introduction of:
- CCTV systems
- License plate recognition cameras
- Regular armed response patrols
Suburbs in Centurion With Boomed Areas
Several suburbs in Centurion have partial or full boomed zones.
These are not always listed on public maps but are well-known among residents and agents.
| Suburb | Boomed Area Details |
|---|---|
| Irene | Several sectors of the Irene village are boomed, especially near Queen Street and Pioneer Drive. Managed by the Irene Landowners Association. |
| Eldoraigne | Street closures with guard houses in parts of Fred Nicholson Ave, Saxby Ave, and Monument Ave. Often managed by active Resident Associations. |
| Wierda Park | Northern blocks near Willem Botha and Centurion Drive are boomed with guard posts and camera installations. |
| Amberfield | Many modern sections are naturally access-controlled through design (not retrofitted). |
| Die Hoewes | Some townhouse complexes contribute to semi-boomed sectors with limited access routes, especially near Gerhard Street. |
| Zwartkop | Partially boomed near the N14 access point and off Lyttelton Road to reduce through-traffic from highways. |
| Southdowns | While technically a lifestyle estate, its layout mimics a boomed suburb with controlled perimeters. |
How Boomed Areas Are Funded
Boomed zones are not funded by the municipality.
Costs are covered through:
- Voluntary or mandatory monthly levies (varies by area)
- Private security company contracts
- Special-purpose trusts or nonprofit homeowner entities
Typical resident contributions range from R300 to R800 per month depending on:
- Number of access gates
- Type of security systems (e.g., 24/7 guards vs camera-only)
- Size of the enclosed area
Boomed Area vs Gated Estate: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Boomed Area | Gated Estate |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Public roads, municipal land | Private roads and common areas |
| Legal process | Requires municipal permission | Developer-controlled or HOA run |
| Access | Controlled but must allow public rights | Fully private and restricted |
| Services | Municipal services continue as normal | Some estate services are private |
| Cost to residents | Monthly security fees only | Levies cover security, roads, parks |
Pros of Living in a Boomed Area
- Improved safety: Reduced through traffic and lower opportunistic crime
- Community building: Active residents’ associations strengthen neighbourhood identity
- Property value retention: Properties in boomed zones tend to appreciate faster
- Controlled visitor access: Gate guards monitor entry and exit
Cons of Living in a Boomed Area
- Extra monthly costs: Levies are voluntary in some areas but highly encouraged
- Inconvenient routes: Booms can redirect traffic, increasing travel time
- Not fully private: Roads remain municipal; emergency and public access must be allowed
- Access limitations for guests: Delivery services, Uber drivers, or tradesmen may need pre-clearance
How to Check If a Property Is in a Boomed Zone
Before buying or renting:
- Ask the estate agent if the property is inside a boomed sector.
- Request contact details for the Residents’ Association or security trust.
- Visit the area at different times of day to assess guard presence and traffic.
- Inquire about monthly security fees and voting rights.
Some boomed areas function informally without formal road closures but still collect levies and manage safety.
What Buyers Should Know
- Municipal valuation does not always reflect added security value, but resale potential is often higher.
- Booming can be reversed if community support drops or bylaws change.
- Property developers and homeowners must cooperate to renew road closure permits.
- Inheritance or resale in a boomed area may carry legal or levy-related obligations.
Conclusion
Boomed areas are a proven way for Centurion residents to improve safety and neighbourhood cohesion without relocating to gated estates.
While they involve extra costs and coordination, they are often worth the investment – especially in high-value suburbs like Irene, Eldoraigne, and Wierda Park.
Understanding how they work, where they are located, and how they affect day-to-day living is essential when choosing a home in Centurion.
