Retail Centre set to open end October this year

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30-05-2023
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Launched by award-winning Devmark Property Group, De Zwartland Werf, an exciting R650 million multi-use development situated on the northern boundary of Malmesbury, is progressing well with the Dorp Street retail centre and Toyota showroom set to be completed by end October this year, and the Crestcare private hospital by April next year.

According to Hein Ehlers, Group CEO of the Devmark Property Group, the development is one of the single biggest investments made in the entire Swartland area. “Malmesbury was identified as a sleeping giant in terms of property development, awaiting a catalyst to awaken its potential. The continuous growth of the town presented an opportunity for the introduction of a substantial retail centre, as did the absence of a private hospital in the wider Swartland region, with locals having to travel to Paarl and Durbanville for medical care. Malmesbury had not witnessed construction or development of this scale in the past. Considering these factors, along with the expertise housed within the Devmark Property Group, embarking on this venture was a no-brainer.”

Ehlers adds that the 10-hectare property is one of their most exciting mixed-use developments to date. “It has been an exceptional project from day one. The outstanding level of co-operation and professionalism from the Swartland Municipality and other stakeholders have been unparalleled and made it a pleasure to be involved in such a large-scale development. The short timeframe, from breaking ground to occupying the first buildings, will also be a record for such a large and complex development.”

Due to the slope of the land, the company had to do a lot of bulk earthworks to form platforms. To achieve this, in excess of 150 000m³ of soil had to be moved and compacted. This sped up the bulk earthworks phase.

The company appointed an environmental consultant to ensure all necessary environmental compliances were adhered to by all contractors. “To form the platforms, we had to do a cut to fill exercise. To minimise our carbon footprint and avoid soil to be taken off site or to be imported, we had to carefully design the levels by adjusting the heights of the platforms. Of course, there were several challenges, but through careful and meticulous planning, co-operation from stakeholders and good communication, we managed to overcome them. The development has led to increased economic activity, best measured in terms of impacts on employment and associated incomes, focusing on the local area and region. To-date, we have created employment for well over 700 people,” Ehlers explains.

As one of the single biggest investments made in the area, on completion De Zwartland Werf will include a convenience retail centre consisting of approximately 50 stores, restaurants, entertainment, a Toyota motor showroom and a Crestcare private hospital. De Zwartland Werk will offer office space ranging from 85m² to 277m², whilst the De Zwartland Voorhuis apartments sold out at the launch. Retirement apartments, a first for the area, will be launched in July.

The tenant list includes the following retailers: Ackermans, Appliance World, Cape Union Mart, Checkers, Checkers Liquor, Checkers Outdoor, Clicks, Crazy Store, Food Lovers Market, Mr Price Apparel, Home and Sport, Mugg & Bean, Pep, PetShopScience, Pick ‘n Pay Clothing, Pizza Perfect, Spec Savers, Spur, Steers Drive Thru, Techno Stop, WW Edit, Vida E, Whitehouse, and Capitec and Nedbank ATMs.

Ehlers concludes that Malmesbury holds a significant position within the Swartland and Western Cape as an urban enclave. “This charming town is rapidly gaining popularity, thanks to its idyllic country lifestyle and strategic central location. Due to the recent upgrade of the N7 to a dual-carriageway highway, the half-hour journey from Cape Town to Malmesbury has become an absolute pleasure and allows for convenient transportation and connectivity. Additionally, its proximity to Cape Town and the airport enhances its appeal, making it easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The area boasts a diversified economic base, which goes beyond agriculture.

This economic diversity adds resilience and contributes to the overall growth and stability of the area. It is positioning itself as the ultimate place to live, work and play.”