Following a call for expressions of interest, a pre-development agreement was entered between Wits and private developer for the construction of 1200 student accommodation of Erf 815, Parktown, also referred to as Wits Junction.

The Developer’s early concept designs were rejected. Amongst other things they failed to take account of the heritage constraints of the site. Wits commissioned a heritage study and in 2008 engaged Ludwig Hansen A+Ud to develop a precinct plan (within the significant constraints of the site). It was then apparent that financial viability would require treatment of the site as an urban, medium density development, mainly 3-storey but not exceeding 4-storeys.

The Development Framework has achieved a change in  attitude towards student accommodation, moving away from uniform residences, to an environment in the form of a village, where a variety of residents amenities and requirements are catered for. Focus of the development is the quality of public space, where students have opportunities to engage with other students whilst studying at Wits.