Construction to recommence next year for Orchards Clinic
ORCHARDS – Following a long period of inactivity, the Orchards Clinic is set to be completed next year.
Following a halt on the construction of the R40-million Orchards Clinic on Louis Botha Avenue in March due to structural problems, the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) has concluded their investigations into the problems.
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Construction was suspended following the discovery of, what the agency called, ‘design oversight issues relating to key support structural elements of the building’.
In an article published by the North Eastern Tribune on 17 March, spokesperson for the agency, Susan Monyai said the agency would conduct an investigation to ascertain the full extent of the problem. “The project was planned for completion in March but this will no longer be possible and a revised completion date can only be determined after the investigation,” said Monyai.
The investigation was completed in August by an independent engineer who found that structural members of the building such as beams and columns for the basement were under-designed.
Acting chief executive officer for the agency, Christo Botes said, “The recommendations from the independent engineer are that the only remedial work required is the strengthening of the beams and slabs mainly in the basement by means of additional steel support and that there is no need to demolish the current structure as it stands.
“The contract with the previously appointed engineers has been terminated. The process to claim abortive costs and additional construction costs will be initiated against the professional indemnity cover of the engineering firm responsible.”
Monyai said remedial works on the clinic would commence early next year. She said, “It is anticipated that the project will be completed before the end of 2018.”
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Ward 74 councillor, David Fisher said, “The Orchards Clinic will ensure that our residents are able to access quality, basic healthcare and ensure that they have equal opportunity to lead healthier lives.
“I ask that our residents continue to be patient and understanding as we look forward to the completion of the clinic before the end of next year.”
