A look at the R1.4 billion shopping mall in KwaZulu-Natal's new city

Construction on Westown Square in the New City of the West is progressing rapidly following a hiatus in persistent rainfall in the region, marking a significant milestone in the development's first phase.

Westown Square, valued R1.4 billion, is currently under construction in the Westown Precinct, forming part of the broader R30 billion Shongweni Urban Development project, and position ff the N3 between Pietermaritzburg and Durban.

Spanning 50,000 square meters, the retail centre will offer a high-street retail experience, blending shopping, dining, residential living, and recreational facilities.

The project has received substantial backing from Absa Corporate and Investment Banking, serving as the primary financier.

This investment, coupled with the ongoing construction of roads and infrastructure worth R730 million by the eThekwini Municipality in partnership with Fundamentum, is expected to attract an additional funding of R14 billion over the next decade.

As the inaugural development within the expansive 100-hectare Westown precinct, Westown Square complements a range of mixed-use offerings, including residential apartments, a logistics precinct, and commercial activities, all set amidst an active green belt.

Designed by retail experts MDS Architecture and Boogertman and Partners KZN, the high-street layout will blend indoor and outdoor spaces to echo the natural beauty of the Shongweni area.

Key features of Westown Square include the Town Centre, Town Gardens, an amphitheater, maze, and children's play areas, all seamlessly integrated into the retail experience.

Leasing for Westown Square has exceeded expectations, with over 80% of space already secured by leading retail giants alongside national and international fashion retailers.

Anchored by Checkers Hyper, Pick n Pay, Dischem, Edgars, Mr Price, and Clicks, the development promises to introduce premium retail offerings to the Outer West region.

Scheduled to open in March 2025, Westown Square represents just a fraction of the broader Westown development's approved plans, which include residential, commercial, and healthcare facilities, set to transform the landscape of the Outer West and boost economic activity.