New contractor takes the reins at Nancefield Primary School construction site

In a bid to get the long-delayed Nancefield Primary School construction project back on track, the Gauteng Government has appointed a new contractor to complete the state-of-the-art facility in Eldorado Park.

The contractor, SMC Construction and Building was introduced by the Department of Infrastructure Development to the community during a public meeting.

The decision comes after the initial contractor was terminated due to poor performance, leaving the community frustrated and concerned about the fate of the project.

ALSO READ: Eldos police arrest two pupils for arson at local school

According to the Gauteng Provincial Government, with the new contractor on board, there is renewed hope that the learners and teachers currently accommodated in mobile facilities will soon have access to a modern and conducive learning environment.

And emerging contractors and local residents will also access job opportunities during construction.

The project, which forms part of the Gauteng Provincial Government’s asbestos school eradication programme aims to provide a safe and supportive space for effective learning and teaching.

According to the project scope, the new facility will include 12 classrooms for Grades one to three, 12 classrooms for Grades four to six, four classrooms for grade seven, admin block, library, ports facility, guardhouse, covered refuse area, nutrition centre and two combi courts.

The community is eagerly awaiting the completion of the project, which is expected to take 12 months.

The new contractor has pledged to work closely with the community to ensure that the project is completed on time and to the required standards.

ALSO READ: Fire destroys three classrooms at Eldorado Park school

MEC for Infrastructure Development and COGTA, Jacob Mamabolo emphasised the importance of timely completion of construction projects, saying that it is crucial for supporting the needs of communities.

He has also announced new project monitoring measures to improve performance.

In response to the recent development, the Eldorado Park Steering Committee (EPSCO) has welcomed the resuscitation of the school construction project.

However, they emphasised the need for transparency and accountability from the new contractor.

Golden Miles Bhudu, Secretary General of EPSCO said, “The community meeting came at the right time as everyone was disillusioned and thought that this ‘umnholo’ (miracle) was never going to happen.

“The meeting has encouraged EPASCO to engage the main contractor regarding progress communication, local labourers and SMMEs.”

He said EPSCO has outlined several key issues that the new contractor must address including;

– Progress communication to the broader community, including timelines and local labourers and SMME involvement.

ALSO READ: Eldos school project meeting gets low turnout

– Financial capacity proof through bank letter approval to ensure the project’s completion without financial hiccups.

– Commitment to carrying the project without relying on invoices or waiting for payment from the Gauteng Department of Education.

– Definition of the 30% scope of work for SMMEs, which amounts to R60 million, to be split among local businesses.

Bhudu emphasised that, “Transparency is key and the community deserves to know the details of the project.”

He said EPSCO’s demands reflect the community’s desire for a fresh start and a commitment to delivering the project on time, within budget and with meaningful local participation.

“With the new contractor on board, the community expects regular updates and documentation, marking a shift from the previous culture of secrecy,” he said.

ALSO READ: Eldos residents in shock after school shootings

Other residents including Anneline Strachan, Gerard Adams, Sue-Ellen Williams and Jeff Woodworth said some of their concerns include lack of engagement with SMMEs in Eldorado Park as promised.

Poor communication regarding the CLO position vacancy has also frustrated residents as they find no boxes available to submit their CVs, despite the advertised opportunity with a deadline of eight days between August 22 and 30.

Concerns over local benefits and participation in the construction project have not been clarified as well.