The relocation in September will leave 12000m² of vacant space in Johannesburg's landmark 'diamond building', 11 Diagonal Street, which is owned by ApexHi.

The move is the result of an integration process following the acquisition of Mercantile Registrars by Computershare SA.

Computershare SA CE Frik Vermaak says: 'We chose to remain in the CBD because we want to be part of the rejuvenation of the Johannesburg city centre. We believe in the future of the Johannesburg city.'

ApexHi MD Brian Azizollahoff says that while it is naturally disappointing to lose a large tenant, the departure of Mercantile Registrars creates opportunities for prospective tenants who want A-grade office space in the rapidly revitalising Newtown precinct. Azizollahoff says the R300m investment in Newtown, spearheaded by the Johannesburg Development Agency and Blue IQ, has boosted the area's accessibility, cleanliness, safety and appeal.

He says the introduction of surveillance cameras to make the area safer has resulted in a significant decrease in crime, measured against incident management reports since April 2001.

Business Day