The ICON Group is currently underway with its scope of work for a new development in Ermelo, which will see the construction of the first shopping mall of this stature in a 100 km radius. The Merino Mall is now under construction in the greater Gert Sibande District in Mpumalanga after seven years of planning.
“This project is an exciting addition to the ICON portfolio, where we have a great opportunity to contribute to the development using a range of our services and capabilities,” explains ICON MD, Wayne Neary. “The new development is also an exciting milestone in the growth of the area, where this mall stands to offer employment opportunities to the surrounding community. It was a privilege to break ground.”
ICON broke ground on site for clients Abland and Moolman Group on 1 July 2021, commencing with the bulk earthworks, internal services and layer works. “It is a comprehensive job, including demolishing of existing buildings, clearing and grubbing, and tree felling. We are also busy with the bulk earthworks including – amongst others – cut and fill of platforms, finishing platforms to final levels for construction, and stockpiling of usable material on site,” says Neary. The company is also constructing the necessary retaining walls.
The site will eventually house a 28 000 m2 fully enclosed small regional shopping centre, which is sure to be a great addition to the Ermelo community and surrounds. It is set to open in October 2022. “Work is going smoothly on site, thanks to our well-experienced team. At ICON, we believe nothing beats on-the-job experience. The range of requirements on this project means we have a great opportunity to put our knowledge to work while adding to our experience,” says Neary. In addition to an experienced team, ICON boasts a fleet of their own equipment – including bulldozers, excavators and rollers – which helps ensure the company is able to meet client demands, to spec and to deadline.
The Merino mall site is situated on the corners of the N2 and N11 freeways, near the N17 and within walking distance from the bustling Ermelo CBD. Confirmed tenants so far include Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Crazy Plastics, Dis-Chem and Clicks.
About ICON Group
The ICON Group, established over 30 years ago, is the trusted provider of bulk earthworks, demolitions and other related civil engineering and construction services that are needed to get a commercial, industrial or mining site into an ideal state of build readiness. The ICON Group has an unrivalled reputation for delivering on specification and well within the deadlines provided.
