eThekwini: KwaZulu-Natal Public Works and Infrastructure MEC, Martin Meyer, has officiated the sod turning ceremony of a multi-million rand inner city building project aimed at transforming the Esplanade Government Building in eThekwini into a self-sustaining structure. This ceremony marks the commencement of efforts to restore dilapidated and hijacked buildings that have remained unused for years.

According to South African Government News Agency, Meyer emphasized the department’s proactive approach in maintaining buildings to prevent them from deteriorating like the Esplanade Government Building. The revamped structure is expected to accommodate government departments, reducing reliance on leased office spaces and redirecting those funds to other priorities. Meyer highlighted the unsustainable nature of owning unnecessary assets, which cost the government approximately R1.7 billion annually, and suggested selling some buildings if required.

The completed building will feature environmentally conscious ele
ments, including energy-regenerating lifts, photovoltaic panels on the roof, and rainwater harvesting systems. Clinton Crowie, Chief Executive Officer of Enza Construction, mentioned that the project is set to begin by the end of 2025 and conclude by the end of 2027, with design development starting at the beginning of 2025 and lasting six to seven months.

eThekwini Municipality Deputy Mayor, Zandile Myeni, expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the memorandum of understanding between the city and the National and Provincial Departments of Public Works. Myeni noted that the municipality identified 76 derelict, abandoned, hijacked, and overcrowded buildings, with 58 privately owned and 18 government-owned. The city collaborates with relevant government departments and state-owned enterprises to repurpose these structures for productive use.