Yet a new contractor for Maalgate bridge

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27-05-2024
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George Herald
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The new provisional completion date is June 2025.

GEORGE NEWS - The Western Cape Infrastructure Department has halted the upgrading project of the Maalgate bridge on the R102 again.

The third in a row of contractors since the start of the project is being appointed.

According to Jandre Bakker, head of communication of Strategic Management and Operational Support, the contract of Leek Construction has been terminated because of a lack of progress on the permanent works. 

The latter took over from the initial contractor, Mamlambo Construction, in September 2022  which had also fallen behind schedule. The initial completion date for the project was October 2022. Leek Construction was given until 6 December 2023 to finish it.

Bakker says the department is currently in a procurement process and is engaging with a new contractor to take over.

 "Because all processes are not yet complete the name of the contractor cannot be revealed at this stage. 

"Part of the agreement is that, if all goes according to plan, we hope to have the contractor appointed and the new contract starting by 1 June 2024."

The new provisional completion date is June 2025.

Bakker says traffic accommodation measures will remain in place for public safety.

The initial cost estimate of the project was R46,5m. The new completion contract for the remainder of the works will amount to R40,25m. The total anticipated project cost, including works already completed, is estimated at approximately R60m.

"It should be noted that annual cost escalation should be factored in when viewing the revised project cost along with the significant time impact the first contractor’s poor performance had on the project," said Bakker. 

"At the time of appointing the second contractor, the required financial guarantees were submitted to ensure that the works could be completed. Unfortunately situations change. 

"The same financial guarantees are required from the third contractor. The third contractor has both the capability and the capacity to complete the contract."

Bakker said apart from the financial guarantees, this contractor recently completed a similar type project in the vicinity. They have also completed similar contracts for the Department of Infrastructure in the past. 

"The financial guarantees, the proven capability and capacity of the provider, the fact that they have recently completed a similar project in the area and have a proven track record with the department makes us confident that this contractor will complete the project," said Bakker.