Development on a new multi-billion mega-project in underway north of Pretoria, called the Rainbow Junction – which will bring a new economic node to the country’s capital.

The project was first announced in 2012 and forms part of priority “catalytic” developments taking place all over South Africa, in partnership with the SA government.

The total development area covers 140 hectares, and is positioned 6km north of the Pretoria CBD starting at the northern slopes of the Magaliesberg Mountains.

The development of the project will be underpinned by 670,000 square metres of commercial development, as well as new 94,000 square metre mall for the region called Rainbow Mall.

The mall development is expected to cost R2.5 billion.

The commercial space of the Rainbow Junction project is more than double the size of Menlyn Maine, and almost three times the size of Melrose Arch in Johannesburg.

Within the commercial use zones, 165,000 square metres will be for retail; 170,000 square metres for offices; 120,000 square metres for residential projects; 65,000 square metres for hotel and conferencing facilities; and the rest for general commercial use.

The project will also have space for educational facilities and social and recreational activities.

Road planning around the mall started in 2015, while it is expected to open its doors in 2019. The entire Rainbow Junction project is estimated to take 10-15 years to complete.

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A look at the Fourways “mega-mall” planned for 2018

A look at the R11 billion city planned on the Vaal River