TZANEEN – McCormick Property Development (MPD), developers of Dan City Mall, have demonstrated their commitment to preserving nature by relocating a decades-old wild fig tree that stood in the way of the planned Boxer and Spar stores.

Preserving natural heritage

Rather than remove the tree permanently, the developers mobilised resources to uproot it with its roots and surrounding soil intact and relocate it about 100m from its original position. Friday Mathonsi, Dan City Mall community liaison officer, told the Herald that the decision was driven by a desire to preserve the area’s natural heritage, particularly as indigenous trees such as these are becoming increasingly rare.

“We wanted to preserve the history of the area. As an organisation that cares about nature, we did not want to take that away from the community,” he said.

Mathonsi said the tree had adapted well to its new location and was thriving, with green foliage.

Dan City Mall takes shape

Meanwhile, construction at the development is progressing, with steel structures already erected. Borehole water is available on site, and plans are underway to build an electricity substation to serve the development.

Situated along the R36, Dan City is one of MPD’s largest rural retail developments. The mixed-use project will provide more than 31 000m² of modern retail space, creating a new shopping destination for communities in and around Dan Village.

The development is also expected to create approximately 2 500 jobs for residents.