A design impression of the interior of the R650 million Grandwest Mall in Cape Town.
Image: Supplied
Sun International subsidiary GrandWest and Flanagan & Gerard Property Group have begun construction on the R650 million GrandWest Mall development within the GrandWest entertainment precinct in Cape Town.
This follows the successful transfer of land into the joint venture between Flanagan & Gerard (90%) and GrandWest (10%), announced in May 2026.
“For Sun International, this investment is about keeping GrandWest relevant, vibrant and responsive to how people live, shop and spend their time. It extends the GrandWest precinct, bringing retail, dining, entertainment and leisure together in a more connected and convenient way,” said Sun International CEO Ulrik Bengtsson.
The 22,000 square metre single-level convenience shopping centre enters the construction phase with strong commercial momentum. More than 70% of the gross lettable area is let, with a further 20% under offer.
The anchor grocery tenants — a 3,000 square metre Checkers FreshX and a 2,500 square metre SuperSpar — are confirmed, alongside Dis-Chem, Clicks and brands from the Mr Price Group, Truworths Group and Pepkor.
“The R650 million GrandWest Mall development reflects confidence in Cape Town’s economy and its growth outlook. Developments like this highlight the role of private sector investment in driving growth, creating jobs and strengthening the retail and commercial economy,” said City of Cape Town Mayoral Member for Economic Growth, James Vos.
He added that as head of the city’s Ease of Doing Business Program, it was encouraging to see continued private sector contribution. He said the Air Access Program meant there were now more than 230 international flights per week during peak season, supporting tourism and trade.
Flanagan & Gerard and GrandWest have made local procurement a core commitment of the development. Preference will be given to Western Cape-based subcontractors, materials suppliers and tradespeople throughout the build.
The well-established Western Cape-based company, Isipani Construction, was appointed as the main contractor for the development, following a competitive procurement process. Preliminary works have been completed, and the site established for construction.
GrandWest’s casino, hotel and entertainment facilities will continue to trade normally throughout the construction period.
GrandWest Mall is designed by retail architecture specialist MDS Architecture, with partner Pierre Lahaye heading the project.
“The design embodies contemporary Cape Townexperience, drawing inspiration from nature and the region's renowned wineries to create a retail environment that speaks directly to the region's identity,” said Lahaye.
The single-level mall follows a gentle curve. The curved form, derived from the Fibonacci sequence, creates visual references to shells, ocean waves and sailing craft, with lighting elements referencing lobster cages and other coastal forms, he said.
The dining and entertainment interface zone adjoining the casino precinct will feature Panarottis, Ocean Basket and RocoMamas, with the restaurant area opening onto external terraces enjoying views north toward Table Mountain.
The mall’s centre court is designed as a flexible space for promotions, events, pop-up tenancies and casual seating. External areas have been planned as a multifunctional space that can accommodate markets and events, in addition to parking. A moat from the historic fort features will be relocated, with its fish incorporated into the landscaping scheme.