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 is entering 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 tenant are confirmed, along with 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 James Vos, the City of Cape Town Mayoral Member for Economic Growth.
Vos added that, as head of the city’s Ease of Doing Business Programme, it was encouraging to see continued private sector contribution. He said the Air Access Programme means there are 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. Preference will be given throughout the build to Western Cape-based subcontractors, materials suppliers, and tradespeople.
The well-established Western Cape-based company Isipani Construction has been appointed as the main contractor following a competitive procurement process. Preliminary works are complete, and the site has been established for construction.
GrandWest’s casino, hotel, and entertainment facilities will continue trading normally throughout the construction period. The mall is designed by retail architecture specialist MDS Architecture, with Pierre Lahaye heading the project.
The design embodies contemporary Cape Town experience, drawing inspiration from nature and the region’s renowned wineries to create a retail environment that speaks directly to the region’s identity, Lahaye said.
The single-level mall features a gentle curve. Its curved form, derived from the Fibonacci sequence, creates visual references to shells, ocean waves, and sailing craft. Lighting elements are designed to reference lobster cages and other coastal forms.
The dining and entertainment interface zone adjoining the casino precinct will include Panarottis, Ocean Basket, and RocoMamas. The restaurant area will open onto external terraces with 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 for markets and events, in addition to parking. A moat from the historic fort will be relocated, with its fish incorporated into the landscaping scheme.
