Harding Corner on track

Property developers, Amber Dawn, is aiming for a comprehensive store mix at Harding Corner to provide shoppers in Harding with a varied retail offering that will add value to the current retail experience. Confirmed tenants include Shoprite Checkers and Checkers Liquor, with signed leases for 3 350 m2 of the total available retail space. A further 19 outlets have agreed to take space at the centre, subject to boards' approval, and are expected to sign leases within the next 10 days.

This would represent 93% of the total lettable space and 84% of rental value, the majority being from nationals, franchises and professionals.

The development has stirred interest across all retail categories, including major banks, cellphone shops, franchised fast foods, restaurants, national clothing and national furniture stores. Hair salons and retailers of hairpieces and wigs have also made enquiries and there is a possibility that the centre's store mix will include a pharmacy, doctor and optometrist.

The development will provide shoppers with 400 parking bays, important given the current lack of parking space in the town. The development will also boost the community's economy, both during and after construction. Local workers and contractors will be employed wherever possible and the completed centre will provide employment for the town and community.

"The development will be completed in phases, with the construction of the shopping centre being phase 1. The company is currently negotiating the purchase of two sites adjacent to the site for further development to complement the centre's offering," says Ed Peen, chairman of Amber Dawn.