Significant advancement has been achieved in the construction endeavors of two hospitals and a school within Durban, prompting a sense of satisfaction from KwaZulu-Natal Public Works and Human Settlements MEC, Sipho “KK” Nkosi. Nkosi conducted unannounced inspections of these three construction sites – King Dinuzulu Hospital, Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital, and Menzi High School – located in eThekwini on Wednesday.
“Nkosi commenced his inspections at King Dinuzulu Hospital, formerly recognized as King George V Hospital, situated in the Springfield region of Durban within the eThekwini health district. Notably, ongoing construction work includes the development of a new helistop and parking facility, encompassing enhancements worth approximately R18 million.”
“The department reported that the current on-site progress stands at 15%, with an anticipated completion date of February 14 next year. Subsequently, Nkosi proceeded to Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital in uMlazi, where the department is overseeing the implementation and renovation of a 3.5-million-liter reservoir, intended to function as a water backup system for the entire hospital.
Construction cost for the Two Hospitals
This project, valued at over R10 million, is scheduled for completion by November 12, 2024.”
Nkosi’s last stop, also in uMlazi, was Menzi High School. The MEC had last visited the school on July 4, 2023. This time, Nkosi was surprised to find that considerable progress had been made at the school.
“I can boldly pronounce that the workmanship I have witnessed today on all three projects is satisfactory, and I am quite confident that the projects will be completed on time,” Nkosi said.
In July, the Daily News previously covered the school’s construction project, which had fallen under the influence of what has been termed the ‘construction mafia.’ This 23-classroom initiative had been plagued by over two years of setbacks due to the challenges posed by this group.
Construction cost for the school
The project at the school Is valued at over R37m, and people from eThekwini’s wards 82, 83 and 85 are employed for on it.
Phumlani Ndlela, the project manager from Public Works, revealed that since assuming control of the Menzi High School construction project in June 2022, it has encountered multiple disruptions. Consequently, the initially projected completion and handover date for the school in 2024 has been extended to March 2025.
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