“Largest and oldest,” they say about Westgate. Ever wondered what makes this mall so special?
Westgate Mall is located in Roodepoort. Roodepoort became part of the Johannesburg municipality in the late 1990s. This happened along with Randburg and Sandton.
Westgate is not just a mall. It’s a retail landmark. Roodepoort has seen large population growth. This is because of Johannesburg’s urban sprawl. Westgate Mall is the largest and oldest mall in the area. Clearwater Mall is another upscale mall in Roodepoort.
Roodepoort’s history is linked to gold. In 1884, brothers Fred and Harry Struben discovered gold. They were granted concessions to mine the area. The town grew around their mine. In 1904, it became the Roodepoort Municipality.
Johannesburg, including Roodepoort, faced challenges. During the apartheid era, the city was segregated. Black people were denied basic rights. Since the end of apartheid, Johannesburg has been regenerating. It is now a cosmopolitan city.
Today, Westgate is a key retail hub. It serves a growing population. The mall offers a variety of shops and services. It contributes to Roodepoort’s economy. The CBD of the city has shifted to Constantia Kloof. This is near the N1 highway and 14th Avenue interchange.
Roodepoort has a large industrial sector. It is located along the Main Reef Road. This area also houses many logistical firms and light industries.
Westgate plays a role in Roodepoort’s economy. It provides a space for retail and business. The mall attracts shoppers from across the region.
The city has numerous parks and green areas. The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden is a large botanical reserve. It features grass parks and a waterfall. Kloofendal Nature Reserve is another large park. It offers trails and small wild mammals.
Johannesburg’s history is complex. It was founded in 1886 after gold was discovered. The city grew rapidly due to the gold rush.
Westgate Mall remains a shopping destination. It is part of Roodepoort’s identity. The mall continues to evolve with the community.