Midrand

Midrand
NJR ZA · CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Name	Midrand
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	South Africa
Subdivision type1	Province
Subdivision name1	Gauteng
Subdivision type2	Metropolitan municipality
Subdivision name2	City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
Established title	Established
Established date	1981
Government type	Ward system
Leader title	Councillor
Leader name	(varies by ward)
Area total km2	152.69
Population total	87190
Population as of	2011
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	South African Standard Time
Utc offset	+2
Coordinates	25, 59, S, 28...
Postal code type	Postal code (street)
Postal code	1685, 1686
Area code	011
Website	www.joburg.org.za

Midrand. Midrand is a centrally located urban area situated within the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality in the Gauteng province of South Africa. Strategically positioned between the major economic hubs of Johannesburg and Pretoria, it has evolved from a sparsely populated region into a significant commercial and residential node. Its growth has been heavily influenced by its location along key national transport routes and its designation as part of the Gauteng City-Region.

Geography and location

Midrand is situated on the Witwatersrand ridge, approximately midway along the N1 highway corridor connecting Johannesburg and Pretoria. It falls under the administration of Region A of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality. The area's topography is characterized by gentle undulating hills, and it forms part of the broader Jukskei River catchment area. Its central position within Gauteng, South Africa's economic heartland, has been fundamental to its development as a logistical and business nexus, placing it within easy reach of OR Tambo International Airport and major industrial areas like Centurion and Sandton.

History

The area was originally farmland before being established as a town in 1981, with its name reflecting its position midway between Johannesburg and Pretoria. Its modern development accelerated in the 1990s, particularly after the end of apartheid and the advent of democratic governance in 1994. A pivotal moment was the decision to locate the Gallagher Convention Centre and the subsequent development of the Halfway House commercial area. The post-1994 era saw significant investment, including the establishment of the Development Bank of Southern Africa headquarters and its designation as part of the Blue IQ initiative, which aimed to stimulate high-value economic sectors in Gauteng.

Economy and industry

Midrand is a major economic hub, hosting numerous corporate headquarters, technology parks, and industrial estates. It is a key site for the automotive industry, with large plants for BMW South Africa and Nissan South Africa. The area is also known for the Gallagher Convention Centre, a premier venue for international exhibitions and conferences. Other significant business nodes include Halfway Gardens and the Kyalami business area, which is adjacent to the famous Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. The presence of institutions like the Development Bank of Southern Africa and various Johannesburg Stock Exchange-listed companies underscores its role in finance and development.

Demographics

According to the 2011 National Census, Midrand had a population of 87,190. The population is highly diverse, reflecting South Africa's multicultural makeup, with significant numbers of residents identifying as Black African, White, Indian, and Coloured. A notable feature is the presence of a large expatriate community, attracted by the concentration of multinational corporations. Languages commonly spoken include English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, and other official languages of South Africa.

Transport and infrastructure

Midrand is a critical transport interchange, bisected by the N1 national highway and the R21 highway linking to OR Tambo International Airport. It is served by the Gautrain rapid rail system, with stations at Midrand and Marlboro, providing fast connections to Sandton, Pretoria, and the airport. Major arterial roads include Old Pretoria Road and New Road. The area has well-developed utility infrastructure, supporting its dense commercial and residential developments, and is a key location for data centres and telecommunications infrastructure serving the Gauteng province.

Education and culture

The area hosts several educational institutions, including the state-subsidized Midrand Graduate Institute, which has since been incorporated into Stadio Multiversity. It is also home to branches of Boston City Campus and CTU Training Solutions. Culturally, Midrand features venues like the Gallagher Convention Centre and the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, which hosts major events ranging from the Johannesburg International Motor Show to music concerts. Recreational spaces include the Rietvlei Nature Reserve on its southern fringe and several shopping centres such as Mall of Africa and Boulder's Shopping Centre.

Category:Populated places in the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality Category:Suburbs of Johannesburg