Other losers will be Cenprop's manager, PFM (owned by JHI, Redefine and Old Mutual), which would face a damages claim from shareholders, and Johannesburg itself, because Rosebank's renaissance as a centre with a sense of place will be diminished.

The court has ordered the demolition of new construction, approved by Jo'burg Metro, on Cradock Avenue because it infringes an agreement Cenprop made with neighbour Cradock Heights. Tenants could have claims of more than R2m against their landlord, adding to a R600 000 demolition cost.

Rosebank Mall will lose rental income and value at a critical time. Cenprop is selling (Property August 23), and suitors Hyprop and Acucap are likely to reduce their bid prices.