Progress is well underway at the 100-hectare Westown Precinct in KwaZulu-Natal, as the launch of its 50,000 sqm mall approaches in less than a year.
Positioned as the "New City of the West," Westown is strategically located off the N3 between Pietermaritzburg and Durban, aiming to emulate the success of Midrand in Gauteng.
Part of the broader R30 billion Shongweni Urban Development project, Westown Square, the first phase of development, is scheduled to debut on 27 March 2025.
Carlos Correia, CEO of Fundamentum Property Group, described Westown as the municipality's largest infrastructure investment since the 2010 Soccer World Cup, bringing significant socio-economic benefits to the Outer West region of eThekweni.
The eThekwini Municipality is allocating approximately R600 million to support bulk infrastructure such as roads, water, wastewater, and electricity.
Westown is set to attract an estimated R15 billion in investment over the next 10 to 15 years, with over R3.5 billion already committed.
Fundamentum, overseeing the development in collaboration with contractors Stefanutti Stocks, is investing millions into bulk and precinct infrastructure.
Private sector investment totaling R1.4 billion has been initiated through Fundamentum's investment, with support from Absa Commercial and Investment Bank, for the 50,000 sqm Westown Square retail experience.
JSE-listed Balwin Properties is contributing an additional R2 billion to the project with the residential development Shongweni Eco Park.
The 1,260-apartment lifestyle estate will offer amenities like a Training Science Gym, children's play area, and swimming pool, with prices ranging from R899,900 to R2,099,900.
Beyond the mall and lifestyle estate, Westown will accommodate various sectors including logistics, healthcare, warehousing, commercial, and tourism opportunities.
Significant progress has been made since development began in November 2022, with 60% of the initial phase already completed, including Westown Square and upgraded roadworks.
Landscaping and construction of parking areas are ongoing, along with the development of bulk water man and treatment works.
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