R69m revamp on track – Carlisle
First phase of ‘Face of the Province’ project done
THE WESTERN Cape government parliamentary precinct upgrade – during which the 72- year- old legislature buildings will get a much-needed facelift – is set to be completed by year-end, according to Transport and Public Works MEC Robin Carlisle.
The upgrade, which encompasses buildings in Wale and Dorp streets, started two years ago and was on track to be completed in the 2013/14 financial year, said Carlisle.
The estimated cost of the Face of the Province project is R68.7 million.
It includes the construction of a new open-plan reception and foyer, with benches under the arches, at 7 and 15 Wale Street.
A gym, canteen, coffee shops and kiosks will also open on the ground floor.
This is the first major revamp to the provincial legislature buildings, built 72 years ago.
The buildings in Wale Street and the 36-year-old Tower Block building in Dorp Street will be transformed into a modern, environmentally friendly office block.
Entrances will be built for staff, visitors and members of the provincial legislature.
The project encompasses four interlinked provincial government buildings, accommodating the Provincial Parliament, the Office of the Premier, the provincial Treasury and the Western Cape Health Department.
“The upgrade will significantly improve the old building at groundfloor level, with new entrances off a public concourse from Wale Street via the arches under 7 and 15 Wale Street,” said Carlisle.
The first phase included repairs of the façade at 4 Dorp Street, removing the dangerous failing plaster and repairing the concrete substructure.
“Everyone will enter under the arches into a new public-friendly piazza. The first phases of the upgrade, which included rehabilitating the building due to previous design defects, has already been completed.
“The most distinct phase of the upgrade is currently under way.”
Huge glass sliding doors will be erected at the entrances to the walkway, now used by pedestrians moving between Wale and Keerom streets.
According to the plans, the section of Dorp Street now closed for construction will remain closed and the road will become a one-way street.
The ANC in the legislature has said the upgrade is a waste of money and will not improve service delivery .
The Western Cape Public Works Department said the project was in the budget, and a full needs assessment had been carried out in consultation with the city council.