Metro Mall

Should you have the pleasure of visiting Newtown using public transport, you will probably alight at the built Metro Mall. Opened in January 2003, this multi-million rand public transport and shopping complex has some of Joburg's unique public art on display. Ranging from life-size sculptures, murals, mosaic and installations, the artworks are a fitting tribute to the numerous artists who work in Newtown and around Joburg and help to enhance the shopper's experience.

Once inside, the buzz will keep you enthralled for hours. Feel free to shop for anything from the latest CD's to fresh vegetables. There is even a wholesaler on site to cater for the growing demands of commuters as well as the growing number of residents in Newtown. At lunchtime, book yourself a seat at the food hall located on the second level of Metro Mall. The food on offer is traditional local cuisine prepared under the watchful eye of the environmental health ministry, not that it is necessary, but it provides a piece of mind for the numerous visitors to Newtown. Metro Mall is situated between Simmonds, Sauer, West and Pimm streets and incorporates the Bree Street taxi rank.

Open daily 6am - 10pm

MALL STATISTICS

• Metro Mall was built at a cost of R100-million and is managed by the Metropolitan Trading Company.
• It has three levels - an integrated transport facility for approximately 3 000 vehicles, a trader's market and formal retail shops along Bree Street.
• Some funds from the development budget were set aside for the public artworks on display at the mall.
• An estimated 150 000 daily taxi and bus commuters go through Metro Mall.
• This development accommodates 600 informal traders, 3 000m² of formal retail space as well as six hundred units of mixed income housing.