The 1800m2 Matholesville Multipurpose Centre is part of the City of Johannesburg’s strategy to meet demand for new social infrastructure. The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) is implementing the construction of this state-of-the-art facility in Ward 127, Region C.
It will provide a safe space that facilitates the development of fundamental skills like reading and writing, in conjunction with sport, physical activity and health to stimulate growth and development in the community.
The clustering of social facilities represents a key strategy in providing a basis for growth and densification. The multipurpose centre will include a much-needed library and computer room, community hall, creche, sports facilities, swimming pool, and offices.
Located on Randfontein Road (R41) and Mathews Goniwe Drive, the R48 million project is being implemented on behalf of the City of Johannesburg’s Community Development Department in three phases.
Phase one: Bulk earthworks completed
As the infrastructure arm of the City of Johannesburg, the JDA completed the first phase entailed bulk earthworks to shape and prepare the land for construction and create a level foundation for the centre.
The first phase also included the implementation of services, the installation of a site perimeter fence, and the construction of a guardhouse.
Phase two: State-of-the-art library
Phase two of the project, currently at 85%, entails the construction of a state-of-the-art library, parking facilities, stormwater infrastructure as well as electrical, mechanical, water and sewer connection services.
The Matholesville Library will serve as crucial resources for local communities, providing a range of benefits that promote education, social inclusion, and economic development. The library will offer free access to books, educational materials, and resources, supporting learning for people of all ages.
Phase three to incorporate sport and physical activities
The facilities to be implemented as part of phase three will provide residents of Matholesville the opportunity to participate in sport, physical activity and health to stimulate growth and development in the community. It will also see the implementation of:
Swimming pool and learners pool: The addition of a community pool will serve as both a recreational and educational space for people of all ages. The pool will not only offer residents as a place to swim and relax but will also be instrumental in teaching water safety and swimming lessons, especially for children.
Sports facilities: The sports facilities will create opportunities for youth and adult sports leagues, serving as a vital space for community bonding and the development of young talent.
Matholesville MPC to include green elements
The development of the Matholesville Multipurpose Centre will incorporate education for sustainable development initiatives. Rainwater will be harvested for landscape irrigation and refuse bin wash down.
A recycling refuse area will also be provided for handling various waste types. Wheelie bins will be used to separate glass, plastics and cardboard/paper recycling. Bicycle parking will also be provided for use by the building staff and patrons.
One of the key objectives of the JDA is to undertake the project using labour-intensive approaches to provide cost-effective short-term employment opportunities to unskilled, semi-skilled workers.
Five local emerging sub-contractors have been appointed for the execution of the portions of the works in project. Other SMMEs will be onboarded as construction develops. These include painting, plumbing, waterproofing, paving and external works.
“By creating spaces that foster education, physical activity, and community engagement, we aim to empower residents and stimulate growth. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, we are committed to delivering a facility that will serve as a cornerstone for social and economic development in Matholesville and surrounding areas,” said JDA CEO Themba Mathibe.
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
