Tongaat mall of tragedy to be rebuilt
Construction is scheduled to start later this year, subject to town planning approvals, with the opening in April 2019
The Tongaat mall that collapsed three years ago, killing three construction workers and injuring 29 others, has been sold and will be completely rebuilt.
The site has been sold by owner Jay Singh to PropRoyale Developers, in partnership with Investec Properties and AJ Property Developments, for R32 million.
With a total floor area of 16 500 m2, the new mall is expected to become home to 41 shops, including popular brands such as Mr Price, Foschini, Spar, Virgin Active or Planet Fitness, as well as a number of chain restaurants. The developers also plan an outdoor cinema and exhibition area.
PropRoyale CEO, Murray Clark said Tongaat was in desperate need of a place where people can safely shop, eat and gather together.
“We deeply respect Tongaat’s heritage and it has been heartening to hear positive feedback from the town’s residents. Our goal is to exceed their expectations by creating a dynamic centre that symbolizes the spirit of Tongaat.
“This will be a centre like no other in the area.”
Construction is scheduled to start later this year, subject to town planning approvals, with the opening in April 2019.
Their immediate goal is to get the go-ahead from eThekweni metro to demolish the existing structure, which is a mountain of mangled steel and concrete.
The original mall was a R208 million project by Singh’s Rectangle Property. An inquiry found that a number of building regulations had been breached during construction.
The National Prosecuting Authority is still to decide whether anyone should be held liable.
Clark admitted there was a lot of negativity surrounding the mall but the new developers were undeterred and planned everything by the book.
“Many developers looked at the site and decided against it. We plan on meeting with the families of the workers who lost their lives when the mall collapsed. They might want to do something to honor their memory.
“We want the community to know that this is not going to be a rush job. We will also be having public meetings with the community soon.”
Clark added that about 1 000 temporary and 300 permanent jobs will be created.
Tongaat BSU youth organisation chairperson Muzzamil Razzak said unemployment is a major problem in Tongaat.
“This gives people something to look forward to, not only for entertainment and convenience but also for job opportunities.”
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