Residents worried about mega mall

The model of the 70 000 square metre Ballito Junction mega mall is on display at the Ballito Junction and interested onlookers seemed to be quite excited about what the future holds.

The Courier asked curious residents gathered around the model for their opinions on R1.4 billion regional mall that is expected to be completed by March 2017.

A handful of people said they believe the mall is too big for Ballito. They were using the Ballito Bay mall as an example, saying that mall is smaller than the new Junction but most of the stores are empty. They are worried that the same will happen with the expanded Junction.

“It is a good thing for the town, but will the population of the area be enough to support the mall?” asked Hans Broerse from Salt Rock.

Lelani van der Merwe said the mall is a great development, however she is worried about the liquidated Ballito Bay mall, saying that it is going to be an eyesore for the town.

Nonhle Mathenjwa said she is excited about 1 500 permanent and part-time jobs that will be created.

“Unemployment is a serious problem in the country and with this kind of development, it will make a difference,” said Mathenjwa.

“If the liquidated mall problem can be solved, I believe it will bring a positive effect to the town,” said Van der Merwe.

Executive director of the Ballito Junction mega mall, developer Pat Flanagan of Flanagan and Gerard, said they have done their homework and people should calm down because there is lot of growth in Ballito.

“In terms of stores being empty, I believe that we have done proper planning in terms of getting businesses into our mall,” said Flanagan.