Barclays to relocate to P110m CBD complex
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
The 5,000 square metres complex, which forms the second phase of the Prime Plaza, is currently being built at the tune of P110 million by listed property developers, Prime Time. The first phase of the Prime Plaza is a two storey building which was completed last year and is already occupied by CEDA.Speaking at the signing ceremony, Barclays chairman Rizwan Desai said that they beat several other competitors who were eyeing the same complex. The chairman said the current headquarters, Barclays House, is now becoming old hence the need to move to a newer location.
"We will certainly make our presence felt. It is tailor-made for the presence of a modern bank operation, a world class building for a world class financial institution," said the Barclays chairman.He added that the new headquarters will also house a wellness centre with a modern fitness centre for employees. According to Barclays head of corporate real estate Baks Chakalisa, the new building is expected to be ready for occupation by August 2014, with two basement floors. He hailed the complex for its strategic positioning which he says will give their brand unparalleled visibility from all angles. "It has a 360 degree view. The brand will be visible from all angels, and it is also accessible from the Gaborone West Phase II road, or from the Masa complex road," explained Chakalisa.
He further estimated that the complex is capable of housing 410 workers.
Whilst the project received mixed reactions from members of the public, the project is indeed a welcome development, which needs to be implemented as soon as possible. Many shared their opinion, with those against the project decrying that if implemented, it will kill the already struggling public transport industry.Many countries around the world have state-run public transport, and those who have travelled to such countries will give testimony...