Emfulen Resorts trading as Boardwalk, in partnership with Parktown capital and Sun International, has unveiled a proposal to construct a 35000m2 multipurpose mall that will be arranged around a revised water feature and the new Sun Park that will support and host special events and entertainment.
The multipurpose venue will offer 2 570 m2 of space and a multipurpose events venue that will incorporate movie theaters, a bowling alley,4000m2 worthy of corporate offices space and 3000 parking bays. The R1.3 billion mega project is set to stand on a 13.3ha site in the Boardwalk precinct.
This project is strategically situated next to the natural landmark of Hobie Beach to meet the needs of visitors as well as the residents of Port Elizabeth.
According to Emfulen Resort Chairperson Bongi Siwisa, an investment of this magnitude will be a demonstration of their belief and confidence in the long term potential of Port Elizabeth. During the two year construction period, the project is expected to create up to 8500 new jobs and a further 1500 jobs created during operations. This is according to a media statement from Sun International
The three partners will undertake different roles during the construction of and operation of the mall. Parktown Capital is undertaking the development and tenanting while Sun International’s mandate will be to ensure that the mix and design is in line with existing business.
Emfuleni on the other hand is contributing its land in return for an equity stake. In return for the investment however, Emfuleni is seeking a renewal of its casino license from the Eastern Cape Gambling and Betting Board for a further 20 years.
When completed, the mall will offer a new form of entertainment options for the city in the form of the new Sun Park which will occupy an area of close to half a rugby field. Its design emulates a community-centered entertainment zone to stage and host a wide range of leisure activities from concerts to sports events, open-air cinema, wine tastings and corporate launches.
The Boardwalk Consortium will offer a more effective and relevant form of entertainment icon for the city in the form of the new Sun Park. The Sun Park will cover an area of approximately half a rugby field.
