Saturday Star

Makeover to set shopaholic­s’ hearts racing

- SAMANTHA HARTSHORNE

FOURWAYS Mall, which aspires to be the CBD of Joburg’s north, is soon to become one of the most convenient and stylish shopping centres in Gauteng.

In the next four years, it will undergo a series of spatial developmen­t projects in pursuit of this goal.

A 3-stage improvemen­t plan will see the shopping hub servicing the newly developed residentia­l sprawl that is growing out of the convenient­ly located retail and entertainm­ent enclave, which includes Montecasin­o.

The mall will be launching the first stage with its central food court this month at the opening of a massive Bounce centre.

At 4 500m2, the Fourways Bounce is set to be the biggest to date. Current interrupti­ons and inconvenie­nces to shoppers during the renovation­s have been minimised and parking until the end of the project will remain free.

A multilevel parkade is a priority to free up space for the planned retail area, which will swallow up the current open-air parking area.

New retail offerings include Hamleys, Zara, Cotton On and a number of hushhush inter national brands that are sure to get shoppers’ hearts racing. The look and feel of the revamped centre is expected to be fresh, and em- braces the industrial styling of exposed wall finishes and elevated roofs. Interior shop fittings promise a focus on the aesthetics.

A dedicated food and entertainm­ent area expected to be ready this month will feature large chandelier­s in an oval hall. Relaxed eating options will offer a family experience where kids of all ages can enjoy adventure golf, Bounce and a cinema.

Ultimately, the centre will boast an integrated shopping experience, carefully curated to offer specialist areas for retail. Adjacent shopping hubs, such as the bank area have been considered. Nearby shopping facilities will be linked with walkway bridges. Road developmen­t will also ensure easier access to the mall.

Eventually, Fourways hopes to be the central business (and retail) district for north Joburg and plans have been approved for a Gautrain extension.

Fourways Mall should, in the next four years, be the retail destinatio­n of choice for commuters and residents of the ever-growing neighbouri­ng suburbs.

 ??  ?? Fourways Mall is expected to be turned into the shopping centre of choice in north Joburg.
Fourways Mall is expected to be turned into the shopping centre of choice in north Joburg.

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