Hundreds of jobs created

The 25 000 square metre shopping centre, which is on the outskirts of Daveyton (Lurie Road), was officially opened on August 28.

The launch was attended by local councillor Makgopa Kgopa, the Ekurhuleni MMC for city planning and economic development Bennett Nikani, community representatives, the steering committee and the centre’s tenants.

Darryl Mayers, head of Investec Property’s retail division, said, at the opening, that the square is unique in it’s look and has and will continue to benefit the local community.

“We have worked closely with the local community throughout, which involved hiring 398 people on a contractual basis to assist with the construction of the shopping centre,” said Mayers.

”In addition to the injection of over R5.1-million of wages paid into the local community during the development phase, the opening of Mayfield Square will create between 450 and 500 permanent jobs.

“That is an achievement of which we can all be proud.”

Nikani said Mayfield Square is an asset to the City of Ekurhuleni and allows local people to participate in the economy.

“Your contribution (Investec Property) is not going unnoticed,” he told the audience.

“We will build on this partnership to better the lives of people.”

Mayfield Square is anchored by retail giants Pick n Pay and Shoprite.

Other tenants include the Edcon Group, Truworths, Foschini, Ackermans, Pep, Morkels, Clicks, Barnetts, Ellerines, Nedbank and Capitec Bank.

Investec broke ground on the site in February, last year.

From the inception, local sub-contractors were used during the construction phase, while local aspirant painters received training and certificates.

The centre will further benefit the local economy by providing work for security personnel and cleaning services, as well as waste removal.