GrandWest Mall construction begins in Cape Town, promising new jobs and retail opportunities

The sod-turning ceremony marked the start of the convenience shopping centre within the wider GrandWest precinct.
The sod-turning ceremony marked the start of the convenience shopping centre within the wider GrandWest precinct.Picture: BHEKI RADEBE/ ANA Studio

GrandWest, Cape Town’s premier entertainment destination, will soon extend beyond gaming, dining, and live entertainment with the addition of a new shopping mall as construction officially gets underway on the R650 million GrandWest Mall development. 

The sod-turning ceremony, hosted on Thursday, June 18, by Flanagan & Gerard Property Group in partnership with GrandWest, marked the start of construction on the 22,000m² single-level convenience shopping centre within the wider precinct. The project is scheduled for completion in June 2027.

The development follows the transfer of land into the joint venture between Flanagan & Gerard and GrandWest, finalised in May 2026. 

It enters construction with strong commercial backing, with more than 70% of the gross lettable area already let and a further 20% under offer. Anchor tenants include Checkers, FreshX, and SuperSpar, alongside national retailers such as Dis-Chem, Clicks, Mr Price Group, Truworths Group, and Pepkor brands.

The property group stated that the project will proceed without disruption to existing operations at GrandWest. The casino, hotel, and entertainment facilities will continue to trade normally throughout the construction period.

 An artist’s impression of the new building.
An artist’s impression of the new building.Picture: Supplied

Speaking at the ceremony, the City's mayoral committee member for economic growth, James Vos, said the investment reflects continued confidence in Cape Town’s economic outlook and the strength of private sector-led development. 

“We welcome this R650 million new investment at GrandWest Precinct. This shopping mall will create 1,200 jobs during construction, and that’s completed. More than 2,000 people will work in this shopping mall, with more than 100 new shops.

“This is a wonderful investment into Cape Town’s economy. It shows confidence. It shows that we are open for business.

“And also, it will complement this entire precinct, because it will create a destination that means business, and also provide visitors and locals with more things to do, to explore, and to enjoy. Because Cape Town’s economy consists of people, places, and products,” he said.

Designed by MDS Architecture with partner Pierre Lahaye, the mall draws on the Western Cape’s landscape and cultural identity, including its wine estates and coastal forms. 

“The design embodies contemporary Cape Town experiences, drawing inspiration from nature and the region's renowned wineries to create a retail environment that speaks directly to the region's identity.”

The mall will also feature restaurants, flexible event spaces, and public areas designed for markets, activations, and community use.

Paul Gerard, MD of Flanagan & Gerard Property Group, stated, "Breaking ground on GrandWest Mall is a moment we have worked toward with great commitment and care. 

“The quality of the team assembled from our joint venture partner and contractor through to our architect and tenants will deliver a development that the Western Cape community will be proud of. We look forward to welcoming shoppers in June 2027."

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