A MULTIMILLION-RAND refurbishment awaits the Chris Hani District Municipality (CHDM) Bells Road offices while council has delegated municipal manager (MM) Moppo Mene to look for alternative meeting venues.
CHDM spokeswoman Thobeka Mqamelo said about R18-million would be spent on the refurbishment which includes civil works, a major electrical upgrade and structural enhancements and elevators.
The work is expected to start this month and will affect offices which are currently occupied by the executive council and two other directorates (health and community services and corporate services).
“To minimise disruptions, this project will be implemented in phases focusing, firstly, on the MM’s wing which includes the council chamber and prefab structures located at the back of the chambers. More works are set to be carried out in the foyer, entrance and on the entrance façade, first floor and external civil works,” Mqamelo said.
While a venue for council sittings was being sought – using rule 8.3 which states council has to approve a change of venue to a specified place and for a specified period – size, availability and cost of such a venue would be considered.
“A sizeable number of staff will be moved to alternative offices off Bells Road. Any move will be made known to the public to reduce inconvenience.”
