Investec Property Group's R26 million refurbishment of its shopping centre (previously occupied by Game) situated on Ayliff Street in the vibrant CBD area of Newcastle, began this month. It will bring new life, new stores and new levels of convenience to Newcastle shoppers.
The opportunity to anchor this 9,000m2 convenience centre was grabbed by Shoprite, after the relocation of the previous anchor tenant, Game. Shoprite will open its impressive 4,800m2 flagship Superstore in Newcastle Shopping Centre in December this year.
"In addition to its fresh new anchor tenant, Newcastle Shopping Centre will also receive an intensive makeover, bringing its aesthetics, functionality and tenant mix in line with consumer trends," said Ronnie Sevitz of Investec Property Group.
The upgrade of this Investec Property Group managed centre will see the incorporation of new tenants including Ackermans, Sheet Street, Pep Stores, Fotofun, SpecSavers, and Soni Jewellers. It will also see Wimpy returning to the centre. These new tenants are all set to open between December this year and February next year. Other existing tenants including CNA, eyperoptics and fabric tenants, Fantique Trade and Elegant Fabrics will remain at Newcastle Shopping Centre.
Aesthetically shoppers can expect a brighter walkway with a natural feel achieved through the removal of brick paving on the walkways. This will be replaced with non-skid porcelain tiles. Canopy facades will now reflect the natural elements of wood combined with cream and beige net fabric, with complimentary porcelain tiles linking the props between the shop fronts to the light walkway tiles.
In addition, the parking facilities will be upgraded and controlled providing a free and secure parking facility for shoppers.
"The relocation of Shoprite to the Centre, from our current location, provides us with a superior environment from which to trade and, in addition, offers our customers a better neighbouring tenant mix and parking facilities," said Tobie Wiese, Development manager for East African and East Coast of Shoprite.
"The new Shoprite Superstore will have an excellent selection of food and an extensive number of additional, non-food, departments and we believe that this brand new store will bring a valuable and convenient shopping service to the community" said Wiese.
