Work on Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court construction resumes

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson and Deputy Chief Justice Dustin Mlambo on Thursday conducted an oversight visit to the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court construction project in Pretoria.

This was as work at the site resumed following delays.

The delays left the facility incomplete and unable to serve its intended purpose. Planning for the project began in 2007, and the original construction contract was awarded in 2013, with completion initially expected in 2016.

Construction mafia-led stoppages and poor contractor performance saw the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) terminate the contract in October 2023, when approximately 60% of the work had been completed.

Following renewed efforts to secure a new delivery arrangement, construction resumed on 7 October 2026 after the appointment of a new contractor. The new contract is valued at R241.26 million, including VAT, and allows for a 24-month construction period.
Completion is scheduled for October 2028.

To strengthen oversight and prevent a repeat of previous delays, the DPWI has placed the project under its direct management, with its architect serving as principal agent while the procurement of a replacement architect is finalised.

The approach places greater emphasis on monitoring construction progress, identifying risks early, resolving technical and administrative obstacles, and holding the contractor accountable for meeting contractual obligations.

The department is also applying lessons from the previous contract through a stronger approach to community engagement. Under its newly launched Integrated Social Facilitation Framework, it is working to engage communities proactively, manage expectations and address concerns before they escalate into disputes that could disrupt construction.

This includes strengthening communication with local communities and promoting transparent processes for local employment and subcontracting opportunities.

The Minister said the project reflects a broader commitment to changing how the department manages public infrastructure, with greater focus on accountability, proactive project management and bringing stalled projects back on track.

“I appreciated the support of the Deputy Chief Justice today as the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court demonstrates why we cannot allow critical public infrastructure to remain unfinished for years while communities wait for the services they need. 

“Our focus is now on holding the contractor accountable, addressing challenges early and ensuring that this facility is delivered on time and within budget. 

“Justice Mlambo and I will ensure personal oversight of this project to guarantee completion,” Minister Macpherson said.

The department is also pursuing the necessary legal steps to quantify and recover losses associated with the previous contract, where appropriate. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Source: Original report at SAnews.gov.za.