A number of proposed structural upgrades to the Bloemhof Electrical Depot are in the process of being finalised. These improvements will expand the facility’s storage capacity and will upgrade the existing workshop and office space.

Phased approach

The project will be run in two phases. In the first phase, two currently unoccupied office blocks will be converted into functional workplaces. The refurbishment will entail a number of structural improvements including repairs to the floors, ceilings and walls as required and all plumbing is to be replaced. Disabled access will also be constructed. Once back in commission, these offices will add much needed office space for use by the Electricity Department. This phase is anticipated to take 12 months to complete at a cost of R32.7 million.

The second phase of the upgrade will entail upgrades to the depot’s technical workspaces. This will include the construction of a general store to replace the existing structure, which will be demolished to make room for a workshop and office block. In addition, five steel-clad storage sheds will be built. The old gantry crane will also be demolished and replaced. The road surfaces in the depot will also be upgraded as required with heavy-duty interlocking pavers. This phase is anticipated to take 18 months to complete at a cost of R83 million.

'These essentila planned upgrades are necessary to ensure the efficiency of the depot and to provide essential improvement to the administrative section where the staffing complement is based,' said Cllr Brendan Van Der Merwe.