Big new R600m mall for Westville

DURBAN is set to get another massive shopping centre with construction well underway on the new upmarket R600 million Westwood Mall in the bustling suburb of Westville.

The 35 000m(2) two-level mall is scheduled to open its doors in October 2008 and is a joint-venture between Spencer Gore Developments and Retail Africa. It is forms part of Westwood Estate, and together the new mall and estate will represent an investment of R1.2 billion in Durban when complete. "Westwood Mall would be unique as a stylish community centre for those who want all the convenience of national retailers without the rushed, pressurised environment associated with it," said Angus Mackay, chairman of Retail Africa.

"We pride ourselves in delivering cutting-edge retail design, inspired by the needs and wants of our target market. This 'aspirational' mall will have something for everyone with an eclectic mix of value-for-money stores, coupled with high-end boutiques and eateries," he said.

Richard O'Sullivan, Retail Africa's National Leasing Director, said that already more than 70% of the centre's space had been let.

"With anchor tenants Pick n' Pay and Woolworths already secured, and large national retailers such as Edgars, Foschini, Truworths and Dischem set to feature, leases are being signed up fast. "Restaurateurs, high fashion and specialist décor stores are urged to take advantage of this prime location while space is still available," he said.

According to the developers, the development of Westwood Mall follows extensive research into the needs and wants of shoppers in the Westville/Sherwood/Cowies Hill area. It is expected create almost 1 200 direct jobs and 2 500 indirect jobs.

Architect Jan Loubser said: "The thinking behind the fresh, natural and authentic architectural feel of Westwood Mall was to create a stylish locally inspired design that will appeal to all.

"The architecture has its roots in the local plantation vernacular and as such creates a sense of place true to its location. The architecture is a contemporary interpretation of this theme, without sacrificing its historic, nostalgic roots Skylights and full-height glazing will allow natural light to enter and emphasise the interior/exterior connection which is absent in older malls."

Welcoming the development, eThekwini Municipality Deputy City Manager, Derek Naidoo said: "The eThekwini Municipality congratulates the developers on this billion rand investment in the west of our city. It fits in well with the city's vision of mixed use developments: commercial, retail and residential. The development excites us in that it increases the rates base and its housing typology responds to the middle income group."

Local Ward Councillor, Fawzia Peer said that Westwood represented development occurring throughout the country. "It will result in housing and business opportunities and social improvement. The area has been underdeveloped for many years and Westwood will provide a distinct change to the entrance of Westville."

Preston Gaddy, Centre Manager of The Pavilion regional shopping centre, said that Westwood won't have a significant impact in its trade, especially with The Pavilion already itself undergoing another major expansion and the addition of more parking.

"There will be a slight impact from a convenience shopper perspective, but Westwood is a community centre while The Pavilion is a regional mall," he said.