THE R1,77bn first phase of Sandton City Shopping Centre’s repositioning is gathering momentum, with demolition work being wrapped up and bulk earthworks operations getting under way.

Scheduled for completion in late 2011, the first phase will entail an extensive refurbishment of the centre as well as bringing on stream a further 30000m² of retail space, with total retail space growing to 131000m²

“It’s all part of our master vision to ensure the Sandton City complex evolves in response to both global design trends and also its surroundings, its consumers and its retailers,” says Caswell Rampheri, chief operating officer of project developer Liberty Properties.

Demolition of the parkade situated off Rivonia Road was a major undertaking with about 2

Where possible, the material has been recycled and Sandton City has rescued a number of reusable items, such as light fittings, for donation to local charities and community groups.

“Demolition was achieved on time taking more than 39000 man hours,” GHC Africa Projects director Michael Woodruff says.

He says the bulk earthwork will kick off the construction of a new basement area, which will allow for the expansion of the existing shopping malls. This stage of the project will take about six-and-a-half months to complete and includes extensive lateral support to surrounding ground levels and adjacent structures.

Zero Unlimited will undertake the bulk earthworks while Stefanutti Stocks will be responsible for the lateral support and piling.

The earthworks are not expected to interfere with the day-to-day functioning of the mall, even though about 230000m³ of soil and rock will be removed for the basement to be built.

Once the key retail stage is complete, Rampheri says, later phases will focus on office, residential and hospitality uses.

Plans include an estimated 65 storey office tower, a new residential component to enhance Sandton City’s mixed-use focus, and a realignment of the mall and the adjacent Southern Sun hotel. The centre is 75%-owned by Liberty Group and 25%-owned by Pareto.

Rampheri says the long-term vision for the centre is a reaffirmation of Sandton City’s premier position. “Sandton City changed the Sandton skyline when it was first built in the ’70s. Our vision is continuing that tradition,” he says.

Source: Business Day