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Dokkies in Umbilo to become educational training centre

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will soon be donating a building to the eThekwini Municipality as part of the city's revitalisation strategy. The Dokkies building in Umbilo will be turned into a training centre for the Department of Education.

THE Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has embarked on a significant initiative to revitalise the “Dokkies” building in Umbilo by handing it over to the Department of Education to use as a training centre.

The move is part of the MEC of Public Works and Infrastructure Martin Meyer’s larger strategy to return government properties to the eThekwini Municipality and the government departments to ensure their effective utilisation of the state-owned buildings. During a recent press briefing, Meyer detailed the department’s concerted efforts to address the challenges posed by “under-utilised and illegally occupied” buildings.

He said, “Out of the 10 067 assets identified, 4 334 have been physically verified. Our goal is to ensure that every government property is put to its intended use,” said Meyer. “The revitalisation of the Dokkies in Umbilo is a clear example of our commitment to this mission. We are working closely with the eThekwini Municipality to transform these areas into spaces that can serve the community effectively.”

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Meyer said a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the eThekwini Municipality, and National Public Works and Infrastructure has been pivotal in addressing under-utilised buildings.

“Returning government properties to the eThekwini Municipality is a step towards fostering better community engagement and development,” Meyer added. “We believe that these efforts will not only improve the aesthetic and functional value of these properties but also enhance business confidence and attract new opportunities to the region.”

In a significant move to advance urban regeneration and support educational initiatives, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has secured the necessary statutory approvals to donate two prominent properties in the CBD to the municipality.

Also Read: City, Public Works move to eradicate derelict buildings

The properties, WestPoint Lodge and the Seaman’s Institute, are set to play a pivotal role in the ongoing intercity regeneration programme.  Meyer said, “These donations mark a crucial step in our efforts to revitalise the eThekwini CBD. By transferring these properties to the municipality, we are paving the way for innovative projects that will enhance the urban landscape and benefit the local community.”

In addition to the current property donations, the department is working diligently to expedite statutory approvals for the inclusion of the Palm Beach Lodge in the donation to the eThekwini Municipality.

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