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SourceHelikon Park — Good news for the Randfontein community, is the announcement by Garnat Properties that construction of a brand new shopping mall, will commence shortly.
The much anticipated new Lakeview Mall will consist of a gross area of 40 000 square metres, of which 32 000 is lettable area. and is expected to open in March 2013.
Representing a total capital investment of approximately R400 million, this significant project will incorporate some 90 shops catering for a broad range of requirements of discerning shoppers. Spread over an area equivalent to five-and-a-half rugby fields, provision has been made for available space for possible future extensions.
In a joint statement Onne Jager, CEO of the Garnat Property group, together with the land seller, well known local businessman Jimmy Pappas of Harry Pappas
Investments, said they are pleased to make this announcement as most
Randfonteiners have long desired to have their own regional shopping mall.
“The positive response locally is overwhelming and interest is running high, with the line shops over-subscribed,” says Pappas, who has taken it upon himself to ensure that all local businesses and related interests have been accommodated and catered for.
“The potential tenants are excited at the prospects and already looking forward to the launch. This new community shopping centre is creating an energy and vibe not seen before in this town.”
According to Jager, the tenant mix, which has been meticulously evaluated and planned, will include Pick n Pay and Checkers – who have each committed to approximately 3000sqm of space – with negotiations well under way regarding a third major national supermarket chain.
"Other tenants will include national clothing retailers, banks, restaurants, fast food outlets and entertainment.There will also be parking bays for 1300 vehicles, and a taxi rank for the convenience of commuters.”
Phil Harford, retail consultant for JHI Properties, who has been appointed as the leasing agents for the centre, says that they have been very successful in securing the desired tenants.
“In addition to the high appeal of the contemporary design style of the mall and its community-based focus and tenant mix, is the prime, central location of the site, on the corner of Tambotie and Malan Streets in Greenhills.
"This mid-point of Randfontein affords convenient, easy access from all the suburbs, as well as being within easy reach of Tarlton, Magaliesburg and Ventersdorp via the nearby R41.”
Jager says that extensive discussions and meetings have been held with the heads of departments of the local municipality in regard to all aspects of the desirability, planning and approvals of the new mall.
“We are appreciative of the fact that the municipality shares our vision and enthusiasm for the mall, which has key benefits for the local economy and community,” says Jager.
“Firstly it will create a large number of temporary as well as permanent jobs, coupled with the fact that the money previously spent by residents at shops outside the Randfontein area, will now be retained within the area, providing an injection into the local economy.
"Furthermore, we have assembled a highly talented and innovative professional team, comprising specialists in the planning and design of large shopping centres.
“Once we are in a position to determine when construction of the mall will commence, we will provide Randfontein with more information about this exciting development.”
