KwaZulu Natal, South Africa – Development is rapidly progressing on the highly-anticipated Westown Square, a colossal 50,000 square meter shopping mall set to become the heart of a massive new precinct in KwaZulu Natal. Westown Square is a part of the Westown Precinct, a critical component of the Shongweni Urban Development project valued at an astonishing R30 billion. The project marks a significant shift in the landscape of KwaZulu Natal, and its impact extends beyond just retail, touching on various aspects of the local economy, infrastructure, and community development.
Westown Square is a mixed-use precinct situated within a carefully managed urban environment, boasting development rights covering an impressive 520,000 square meters of bulk floor area in Shongweni. The ambitious project broke ground in late September 2022, as the first sod was turned for the development of the retail high-street experience, and it has been moving forward at an impressive pace.
Carlos Correia, the CEO of Fundamentum Property Group, the driving force behind this project, emphasized the commitment to the long-term realization of the R15 billion investment in eThekwini. He noted, “The speed at which the development team is moving is a testament to our unequivocal commitment to the long-term realization of this ultimate R15 billion investment in eThekwini.”
One of the standout features of this grand development is the involvement of Absa as the primary funder. The investment from Absa serves as a catalytic force that has propelled Westown Square and the broader Westown development into action. In conjunction with the R730 million invested in roads and other infrastructure by the eThekwini Municipality in partnership with Fundamentum, this has not only enabled Westown Square to take shape but is set to leverage an additional R14 billion in investments over the next decade. Charles Russon, Chief Executive of Corporate and Investment Banking at Absa, highlighted the positive impact that Westown Square will have on KwaZulu Natal and the local community.
Westown Square is set to become a shopping haven with a host of premium anchor tenants that include Checkers Hyper (The Shoprite Group), Pick n Pay, Dischem, Edgars (Retailability), Mr. Price, and Clicks. These renowned brands will establish “premium” stores within the retail center, many of which will be servicing the area for the very first time.
Checkers Hyper, for instance, will occupy around 10,000 square meters of space across four standalone outlets, including Checkers Hyper, Petshop Science, Little Me, and Checkers Outdoor. Pick n Pay’s presence in Westown Square will showcase the group’s latest revamp model, and Edgars will introduce a new-look store, promising a unique shopping experience.
But Westown Square is not just about shopping. The development will also house “The Barn,” an innovative market concept designed to offer bespoke experiences. This area will feature a delightful combination of food, wine, local produce, and handmade crafts within a textured environment characterized by warmth and greenery, providing visitors with an exceptional and immersive experience.
More to Come – Shongweni Park
As if Westown Square and the Westown Precinct weren’t enough, more exciting developments are on the horizon. During the one-year anniversary event, JSE-listed Balwin announced its plans to develop Shongweni Park. This expansive project will encompass a 1,260-apartment lifestyle estate that will become part of Balwin’s Classic range of lifestyle estates. The development is set to unfold in 20 phases over the next four years, further contributing to the transformation and growth of the KwaZulu Natal region.
In conclusion, Westown Square is on the cusp of becoming a focal point in KwaZulu Natal’s rapidly evolving landscape. With the backing of Absa and a remarkable array of premium anchor tenants, it promises to redefine the retail and lifestyle experience for residents in the region. Moreover, the continued development of the Westown Precinct and the announcement of Shongweni Park show the enduring commitment to transformation, growth, and community development in this burgeoning part of South Africa. The development at Shongweni holds enormous promise for the region, and all eyes are on KwaZulu Natal as it continues its journey toward a vibrant and prosperous future.
