The new R1.8bn vibrant mixed-use 65,000sqm Central Square opened today, 21 September, at the heart of the iconic 315,000sqm Menlyn Maine decentralised green city mega-development, South Africa’s first green, mixed-use city precinct. As a partner of the Clinton Climate Initiative, Menlyn Maine is one of 16 green cities being built in various countries, and the only one in Africa. In line with Menlyn Maine’s exceptional sustainability benchmarks, all buildings in the precinct are set to be rated 4 Green Star SA or higher by the Green Building Council of South Africa. It is also targeting a LEED ND certification for the precinct.

In an industry first for South Africa, Central Square at Menlyn Maine has achieved a Green Star SA Custom Mixed Use rating from the GBCSA. Central Square is co-owned by joint investors Menlyn Maine Investment Holdings and the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) represented by the PIC. It will introduce a compelling offering of 30,000sqm of exceptional boutique-styled mall development with over 50 retailers, restaurants and entertainment experiences, many of which share its sustainability ethos.

Henk Boogertman, architectural director of Menlyn Maine Investment Holdings (Pty) Ltd, says, “Many of Central Square’s retailers and restaurants are likeminded in prioritising sustainability, including our large grocery stores, Spar, Pick n Pay, and Woolworths. With sustainability leaders coming together in a single green city, Central Square has become an exciting platform for collaborative environmental innovation. This has exponential positive impacts.

“People can shop, dine and unwind at Central Square in full confidence that by choosing Menlyn Maine for everyday activities they are being kinder to our fragile planet while enjoying a world-class experience. The design of Central Square articulates the Menlyn Maine vision to create a modern, New Urban city precinct, where everything is right on one’s doorstep and people can live full, balanced, responsible and exciting lives in a well-secured environment,” he adds.

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