The Tshwane City Centre has been facing various challenges over the years, including urban decay and socio-economic issues. However, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure’s Salvokop mixed-use precinct development project aims to revitalize the city’s core and create an integrated, accessible environment for all its residents.
Milestones
In 2016, StatsSA’s Head Office was completed, marking the first major milestone of the project. Since then, plans to construct four more government head offices within the precinct have been progressing rapidly. These offices will house various departments.
The Phases
The Salvokop Precinct Development is divided into three phases. Phase 1 involves the installation of bulk and internal infrastructure services and the development of the four Public Private Partnership (PPP) Head Office Buildings. Phase 2 involves the development of Business Erven by the private sector, while Phase 3 involves the development of the mixed-income residential component.
Currently, the construction of Phase 1A is in progress, with Bulk Civil and Internal Engineering works underway.
Strategic Integrated Project (SIP)
The Salvokop Precinct Development became a Strategic Integrated Project (SIP) in May 2020, following the Infrastructure Investment Plan’s approval by the Cabinet. This move highlights the government’s commitment to investing in infrastructure development, which fosters sustained economic growth and job creation and revives the construction sector.
Key Benefits
The project brings significant benefits to the community and the region at large, including economic transformation and job creation, spatial integration, human settlements, and local government. Furthermore, the project promotes social cohesion and safe communities by incorporating sustainable buildings and precinct design, solar power, rainwater harvesting, and planting over 700 indigenous trees, along with establishing public parks.
Oversight Visit
In June 2023, Minister Sihle Zikalala visited the Salvokop Development site to conduct an oversight visit. This visit demonstrates the government’s keen interest in the project’s progress, which will ultimately breathe new life into the Tshwane City Centre.
The Salvokop Precinct Development Project is an excellent example of the government’s efforts to invest in infrastructure that positively impacts South Africa’s socio-economic landscape. This project not only revitalizes Tshwane’s inner city but also serves as a model for future urban regeneration endeavors.
