Commercial Property News South Africa

Springs Mall to open in April 2016

The R850 million development of a shopping mall for Springs has begun its countdown to an opening in April 2016. This 52,000sqm retail centre in Casseldale will serve both the local and far East Rand shoppers, capturing trade on the N17 as far west as Ermelo in Mpumalanga.
Artist's impression of Springs Mall
Artist's impression of Springs Mall

It enjoys good location at the intersection of the N17 highway and R51/Wit Road. The mall benefits from accessibility off Jan Smuts Road, frontage on the N17 highway and prominent visibility. The two-level mall will be visible up to 5 km away for people travelling on the N17 highway.

Developed and owned in joint venture by Flanagan & Gerard Developments, Blue Crane EcoMall and the family of Giuricich Brothers, the mall is the brainchild of Springs businessman, Franco D'Arrigo, whose family has lived in Springs for three generations and are invested in the future of this city. It first announced its plans to develop Springs Mall in 2008. Since then, it has been unrelenting in its resolve make its vision a reality.

D'Arrigo explains that the social and economic impact of the regional mall will extend well beyond the borders of Springs. "The mall is estimated to create between 500 and 700 jobs during the construction phase and a further 1200 to 1500 sustainable jobs after it opens. Local employment will be prioritised." Because of this, Springs will retain between R300 million to R500 million in revenue, which is currently being spent outside of its borders and boost the Springs economy by R1.2 billion.

Patrick Flanagan of Flanagan and Gerard says, "Springs Mall has all the ingredients for an exceptional retail development. It benefits from excellent location, access and visibility in a growing node, inhabited by mostly aspirant and upmarket residents with robust spending power and little retail nearby."

"It is being designed to offer its shoppers a wide and appealing choice of retail. Two supermarket anchors and two fashion anchors will lead its tenant mix. The centre will offer a full line-up of national retailers and services."

Mayoral spokesperson for the City of Ekurhuleni, Zweli Dlamini says, "We welcome investment that improves our economy, creates jobs and assists with fighting poverty. We strive to build a liveable city and we can only achieve this by working together with the private sector."

He describes Ekurhuleni as a sleeping giant in terms of economy development. "It is strategic for any investor. Apart from being home to the gateway of Africa and one of the busiest international airports in OR Tambo, it is criss-crossed by all the major freeways in the country and hosts the biggest railway station in Germiston - thus making it every investor's dream."

Representing the latest in excellent mall design by award-winning MDS Architecture, it will convey elegant simplicity. It will feature natural light, while remaining enclosed from all the elements. Placing large anchor tenants at either end of the mall, like bookends, will create activity throughout the centre ensuring that it is always a buzz.

The centre will provide free open-air parking on both its shopping levels. The mall is also designed to provide easy shopper access from both parkade levels, through four entrances.

Let's do Biz