Phase 1 of Northmead Mall refurbishment complete

26 Apr 2013

The Phase 1 interior renewal of Northmead Mall, in Benoni, is set to be complete in April 2013. One Property Holdings (OPH), in collaboration with Capstone Property Group, is refurbishing this 30-year old centre, originally built by Anglo American and purchased by the partners two years ago.

Currently, the 13,966m² mall has an offering of over 40 stores, which provide consumers with a comprehensive retail experience that includes well-established anchor tenants such as Pick n Pay, ABSA, Mr Price, Sheet Street and Clicks, together with chain stores, national brand names, exclusive boutiques, amongst others. Ample free parking and 24-hour security are also prominent features of the mall's current offering.

Its most recent additions include a newly fitted out Ackerman's and Pep, Jam Clothing, Rage and African Bank, set to commence business in April and May. "Northmead Mall is the only substantial fashion offering on the northern side of the N12," says Chris van Reenen, CEO of OPH.

Phase 2 focuses on visibility and accessibility

Phase 1 of the centre's new refurbishments focuses on the internal flows and the tenant mix of the mall.

The planned Phase 2 construction will focus on visibility and accessibility and will see improvements made to the surrounding road infrastructure, clearer signage, additional parking and a food court. As Northmead is situated on a busy road, OPH is working hard to increase the mall's visibility in order to attract new patronage. To improve flows, the company will be shifting parking lot locations, and to ameliorate facilities, new ceilings and lifts will be installed. In terms of the centre's tenant mix, OPH has focused on developing a community centre of sorts that will service consumers in the heart of Benoni.

While the launch date of Northmead's Phase 2 of refurbishments is yet to be confirmed, van Reenen reveals that by the time all phases are complete, the company will have achieved a collective upgrading of the entire Northmead area, not only in terms of infrastructure but also in terms of aesthetics, security and services.

"The mall offers a great platform for a successful renovation, as it is well located and well known in the area. Through the combination of upgrades to the facility and surroundings and an improved tenant mix, we can improve the overall shopping experience. The mall will bring 'value for money' shopping to Northmead," concludes van Reenen.

By the end of its refurbishments, shoppers can expect to enjoy a contemporary and classy centre with state-of-the-art security and modern amenities that are in line with the latest innovative trends and ergonomics.