New Makro centre adds convenience and profits today while implementing sustainable practices to ensure the environment in the future Makro, the nationwide retailer specialising in general merchandise, electronics, food and liquor, has expanded its South African presence to 16 stores with the opening of its new centre in Montague Park.
Montague Park, on the northern border of Cape Town’s premier industrial node – Montague Gardens – and with easy access to all major arterial routes, is set to become one of the most desirable mixed-use locations in greater Cape Town.
Montague Park
The 62-hectare site, sought after by several national ‘big box’ retail chains and modern distribution centres, will also offer small- and medium-sized users opportunities to position their businesses in a secure and modern business park.
Yet it was not always a desirable location. Previously the site was an old fertiliser factory, a landscape eyesore and pollution magnet, whose removal was applauded by local residents and businesses in the areas.
The rehabilitation of this area was included as part of the Montague Park’s development and forms part of one of the green spaces in the eco-friendly commercial and industrial park.
Contractor, Grinaker-LTA and project developer, Eris Property Group are committed to protecting and preserving the Duikerveli, an ecologically sensitive area that has since rehabilitation, attracted a bevy of bird life to the park.
The Duikerveli
Situated about 100 metres from Makro’s new store the project team is committed to protecting it says Grinaker-LTA’s Mark Belman.
“Our entire team understand the value of this area and we are being exceptionally conscientious about ensuring that no contaminants from the site enter it.”
One way they are ensuring this is through an intense recycling programme. Being a member of the Green Building Council of South Africa, the contractor has taken the opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to ‘green’ construction. Minimising the impact of this project on the environment, all waste materials were separated to ensure that use of recyclable materials was maximised.
Nearing completion in October 2011 is a new 20,000m2 single storey building with mezzanine offices. Its envelope is a concrete frame with structural steel columns, roof sheeting and wall cladding with brick infill. Concrete power-floated surface beds were also put in place.
Landscaping
While aesthetics are not frequently considered a factor in industrial developments, Montague Park brings new levels of detail through a comprehensively landscaped environment and also offers unparalleled classic views of Cape Town and Table Mountain.
Handled by CNdv Africa and Cape Contours Landscape Solutions, the landscape was designed in accordance with both the overall aesthetics of Montague Park and Makro’s specific requirements, which include energy and water conservation.
The site is extremely exposed to high velocity winds, greatly influencing the plant choices. The planting was specifically chosen to withstand the harsh climatic conditions, complement the clean and modern Montague Park aesthetic and ensure minimal maintenance requirements in future.
At least 20 percent of the planting areas will be irrigated with excess condensate coming from the buildings refrigeration and cooling plants—another green solution. This recycled water will reduce the overall irrigation requirements.
Project Team
Developer       Eris Property Group
Architect        R & L Architects
Landscape Architect
CNdV Africa
Main Contractor  Grinaker-LTA
