JSE-listed Vukile Property Fund has launched its revamped Bedworth Centre, in Vereeniging, following a R141-million redevelopment project that started last year.

The revamp of the 29 200 m² centre entailed improving aesthetics and amenities, as well as upgrades to layout, access and security.

The redevelopment included converting an about 16 500 m² Pick n Pay Hyper store to 20 new brands and two new anchors, being Boxer and Shoprite, Vukile Property Fund South Africa MD Itumeleng Mothibeli explained, speaking to Engineering News on the sidelines of the launch.

“It’s a complete redevelopment, but also, a repositioning of the centre to ensure it provides for the broader community that has changed and evolved over the years, so that it is relevant and provides a service that the community needs.”

The two new national grocery anchors of Boxer and Shoprite both opened late last year.

Other new additions include Hungry Lion, Big Joe Pies, Fish & Chips Co, Factory 88, Jam Clothing, Bellama, Blooming Beauty, Pep Home, OK Furniture and Volpes.

Sportscene, Kreme Beauty Lounge, Cash Crusaders and Home Décor Villa opened early this year. Shoprite Liquor and Boxer Liquor are also expected to open soon.

An updated tenant lineup spans essential goods, services and aspirational retail.

The centre includes Pepkor Group’s Home.Tech.Sleep concept store, the second to open in South Africa. The 1 570 m² store aims to provide a one-stop destination for integrated home solutions.

The centre was currently 91% occupied. Mothibeli said the company would hold back on filling the vacant spots for a while, which it typically did for redevelopment projects. This would allow space for current tenants to trade and, depending on their performance, enable them to expand and introduce their additional brands.

The centre also has a South African Revenue Service Client Service Centre, located adjacent to the main parking area, aiming to bring government services closer to residents.

Moreover, as part of the company’s drive for community involvement, the centre encompasses a Local Business Hub, a partnership with Shape Café.

It aims to provide a space for local entrepreneurs to trade in a formal shopping centre, as well as educate them about the correct processes involved in this.

The revamped centre aims to cater to a diverse range of customers and multiple Living Standards Measures, catering to shoppers from Bedworth Park, including the Vaal University of Technology and North-West University, as well as the south-east and south-west suburbs, the greater Sharpeville, Bophelong and the surrounding community.

The revamp also included enhancing accessibility for commuters and pedestrians, with additional entrances and walkways.

The redevelopment started in March last year and took about nine months to complete, with the anchors having been trading for about four months now. The centre continued to operate during the revamp.