By Bob Kernohan

In the latest major retail shopping centre expansion in Nelson Mandela Bay, which takes the total spent on such projects to more than R800-million, the owners of the Cleary Park mall in Stanford Road have announced they are to spend R88-million in adding a further 10000m² of shops and facilities.

ApexHi Properties said on Monday “substantial research” had motivated the company “to invest in this development to fulfil the growing needs of the community in terms of retail offerings and job opportunities”.

“Originally developed 18 years ago, the centre has been very popular with shoppers. In 2006, the centre underwent an upgrade at a cost of R56-million,” ApexHi said.

The objective was to create a “brighter, more convenient shopping centre” and the plan was to extend further to the east side of the premises.

“Preliminary work is already under way with teams doing preparation ground work for about 40 additional retailers, including Edgars, Legit and CNA,” an ApexHi spokesman said. Contractors were expected to move on site this week.

“More fashion, food and convenience-type shops, including a stand-alone, fast-food drive-through and a ‘mega‘ hardware store are being accommodated to ensure that the tenant mix and layout supports an easy, relaxed shopping experience.

“To add to the appeal and create a more exciting shopping environment, some existing shops are upgrading and refreshing their look.”

The spokesman said some of the parking areas would also be reconfigured to create a more convenient exit and entry.

“On the west side of the centre, a designated taxi rank will be allocated near a structured community trading vendor area.

“ In keeping with the ongoing community care programme, a full-sized soccer pitch will be created.

“This will be completed by end November this year.”

The company said the extensions should be completed by April next year.

The extensions to Cleary Park were announced only days after the opening of the R350-million Moffett on Main shopping centre in Walmer, and just months after two other shopping centres close to that area – Kings Court (R360-million) and the 17th Quarter – were opened. The value of the 17th Quarter is not known.

However, the Dros restaurant at King‘s Court has already closed its doors “indefinitely”, six months after opening at the centre. Centre manager Ian Austin said the restaurant was being reduced in size.

Source: The Herald