R75 million redevelopment boosts Edgars premises at Gqeberha’s Walmer Park Shopping Centre

The real estate investment company says it is advancing its strategy of reinvesting in high‑performing South African retail assets. Growthpoint Properties presses on with a R75 million redevelopment of the Edgars premises at Walmer Park Shopping Centre in Gqeberha. Thisinvestmentwill reinforce Walmer Park’s position as the city’s leading retail destination by introducing a new internal link mall and expanding the variety of retail offerings.

“Walmer Park is a well‑established, dominant regional centre with consistently low vacancies and strong tenant demand, says Gavin Jones, head of Retail Asset Management at Growthpoint Properties. “With vacancies at approximately 1.5%, thisredevelopmentoffers a rare opportunity for new tenants to enter an otherwise fully let centre.” Situated in the heart of suburban Walmer, the centre is recognised for its high‑quality retail and customer experience, as well as its ongoing evolution in response to changing shopper needs. This redevelopment marks the centre’s eighth upgrade in 38 years and underscores its commitment to contemporary, market‑relevant retailing.

A key component of the project is the reconfiguration of the existing 4,680m² Edgars store into a refined, 1,982m² format supported by a refreshed tenant mix. The introduction of a new link mall will accommodate nearly 10 additional stores, bringing the total offering to almost 170 retailers, supported by free customer Wi‑Fi. “Shoppers can expect an enhanced range of fashion, homeware and national brands,” adds Jones.

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The project aligns with Growthpoint’s broader retail strategy to increase exposure to assets and regions positioned for sustainable long‑term growth, particularly in key coastal metros such as KwaZulu‑Natal and the Western Cape. Across its retail portfolio, Growthpoint says it continues to prioritise capital allocation towards dominant centres with strong trading metrics and proven reinvestment potential. Following the recent commencement of the R270 million upgrade and expansion of Paarl Mall, Walmer Park is the second major strategic redevelopment initiated this year.

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