Zenprop Property Holdings (Pty) Ltd last year acquired the rights to develop a new shopping centre in Kuilsriver, Cape Town.  The centre, which is planned to open in April 2008, comprises a first phase 31 000m2 of gross lettable area of which 60% has already been let to major national retailers.

The 13ha site is located at the intersection of two major arterials - Polkadraai and Van Riebeeck Roads in Kuilsriver, equidistant to the N1 and N2 Highways.  “The area is experiencing unprecedented growth, particularly in the field of residential development”, according to Doug Parker, who conducted the feasibility research study.  “And with existing retail infrastructure comprising strip shopping along Van Riebeeck Road, residents are currently forced to travel to shopping centres in Tygervalley and Somerset West, some 15kms away”. He said

The well positioned site, with high visibility, excellent vehicular access, and absence of retail competition, was given the thumbs up on all accounts, and Zenprop commenced with leasing in June 2006. 

“We initially anticipated a small regional centre of around 16000m2, but following the unbelievable response from all major national retail chains, we’ve been forced to double the size of the centre to keep up with tenant demand,” according to Adam Blow, Director of Zenprop Property Holdings (Pty) Ltd.

The centre will be anchored by Super Spar and Woolworths, with the Edgars, Foshini, and Pepcor groups all substantially represented.  The following are already signed up: Jet, C.N.A, Legit, Foschini, Markhams, @ Home, American Swiss, Totalsports, Exact!, Truworths, Identity, Ackermans, Pep, Shoe City, Mr Price, Mr Price Home, Milady’s, Sheet Street, Clicks, and Musica. 

Comprising a single level of prime retail space in a tight horseshoe formation, Zevenwacht Mall will offer its burgeoning and increasingly affluent market a high quality one-stop shopping destination, with abundant free parking, and all retail and service related categories well represented. Physically, the centre promises impeccable landscaping, abundant natural light, and extensive use of materials, form, and nuance that are representative of the Winelands vernacular.

“The centre’s design is rooted in context, providing a fresh contemporary take on the Winelands theme without being gimmicky or predictable,” according to Concept and Design Architect Imraan Ho-Yee. “Shoppers won’t find gables, vines, and wine barrels, but the neutral earthy palette and sensitive use of natural stone, cobble tiles, pergolas, glass, timber, and steel elements will ensure that the centre sits comfortably within its physical and cultural environment”.

It is this care and attention to detail that defines Zenprop’s pioneering approach to property development.  “Our success lies in our ability to differentiate through innovative thinking on all key levels – concept, design, tenant mix, and management.  To stay ahead, we need to continuously customise our retail offering to meet the needs of our audience, and avoid the “one size fits all” approach at all costs” said Blow.

With an auspicious history in commercial property development, Zenprop’s emergence three years ago into the field of retail and mixed use development has produced 163 000m2 of prime retail space across developments in Gauteng and the Western Cape.  Projects include Athol Square in Sandton, Design Quarter in Fourways, Maponya Mall in Soweto, Vangate Mall in Cape Town, and Design Quarter in Durban.

Zenprop will be hosting a retail leasing launch on site in April.  Prospective tenants seeking more information, or interested in attending the launch, are invited to contact Sean Kimble or Pam Gerber of the Zenprop Leasing Division on 021 418-8088.
 
Sandy Swift
ESP Retail Marketing Specialists
083 7799538