FNB has launched its regional office in uMhlanga Rocks Drive, named FNB Acacia House
Category Umhlanga Ridge New Development
FIRST National Bank celebrated the launch of a new office development, valued at R430-million in Umhlanga.
The complex, named FNB Acacia House, will become a regional office for FNB, Rand Merchant Bank and other divisions within the group.
Michael Mabuyakhulu, MEC of Economic Development and Tourism in KwaZulu-Natal, reinforced the support the city has provided the project to date. In his keynote address, he congratulated FNB for its commitment to the growth of the province, vision and investment into South Africa.
"The commitment by FNB to invest in the city's sustainable economic development standards has been commendable," he said.
The development will comprise of four parking levels, a ground floor and five office levels, which will house 800 employees.
Encompassing environmental best practice methods, the development will enjoy extensive green energy-saving efficiencies in the primary, electrical and mechanical installations. The project will aim at achieving a four-star 'by design' and 'as built' green rating. The building incorporates construction, design and operational practices that reduce and eliminate the negative impact of development on the environment.
Speaking at the ceremony of the construction of the building, First Rand's chief executive officer, Sizwe Nxasana, explained that the banking group considered FNB Acacia House to be far more than just another city building.
"KwaZulu-Natal is South Africa's second largest economy and is well positioned in the agricultural resource-intensive manufacturing sectors, tourism and accommodation sectors. Our investment is an extension of our continued commitment to investing in the development of the city and region, creating much needed jobs in line with government's employment development and social upliftment agenda," said Nxasana.
The development has been designed by the architects, Bentel Associates International, and the principal contractor is Wilson Bayly Holmes-Ovcon Construction. The building is due to be completed in November next year.
Author: Rianette Jansen van Vuren
