Archive 2004

Facelift transforms has been into must-see

Transformation is the order of the day in our country, but this is not limited to attitudes and business practices. Shopping centres are also benefiting. Some get a facelift, others have their whole character changed! One such centre is Brightwater Commons – formerly Randburg Waterfront – in Johannesburg.

Those who went there before will remember it as overcrowded, full of revelers, many of whom had indulged in alcohol and drugs, brawlers and the lake in the centre filled with smelly water. It became something of a ‘den of iniquity’.

Extensive market research, which placed a lot of emphasis on involving the local residents, resulted in the focus on fresh, open air, nature, and water and family values. The owners - Allan Gray Property Trust - have the vision and focus to make this project a success, together with a committed Broll management team

The centre was built on a natural vlei, with the stream diverted through the car park by means of an underground culvert. A new artificial lake has been created with a solid base, running water and rock cascades. The 60m musical fountain - one of only two of its kind in South Africa - now has a stable foundation and impresses all who see it in action.

As a ‘getaway’ Brightwater Commons now has what every harassed Gauteng shopper craves – space!

The aim is to become a lifestyle and décor centre. The 30 or so restaurants have been reduced to 10 and the dozen pubs reduced to only one. Pick ‘n Pay have expanded with a new wine emporium and coffee shop and are planning to open a fish deli. Negotiations are at an advanced stage with Cycle Logic, Truworths, Foschini Group, Mica Hardware and Woolworths.

The whole feel of the centre has changed dramatically. Manicured lawns, meandering paved pathways, trees, beautiful gardens, pillars and stone cladding have created a natural village look.

Security has been upgraded and remains omnipresent but subtle.

Many of the old tenants have renewed their leases and are extremely positive about the changes and the future of the centre. It is expected that all the available space will be let by April 2005.

One remarkable aspect of this centre it is the only one in the country where the management and the leasing are controlled by opposition companies; owners, Grayprop, appointed Broll Property Group to manage the centre and Marriott to handle the leasing. Together they make a superb team that looks set to put Brightwater Commons on the map of places to be seen – with your family, of course.

News Article courtesy of The Broll Property Group

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