Boksburg Magistrate’s Court renovations hit another delay

Renovations to Boksburg Magistrate’s Court, scheduled to start in mid-September, have not commenced, again leaving stakeholders frustrated and disappointed.

The Advertiser reported more than a year ago that the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) said the dilapidated court building would get a facelift, following growing concerns about its deteriorating condition.

However, budgetary constraints caused significant delays.

Earlier this year, the DPWI confirmed that the long-awaited upgrades were set to begin by mid-September, but their latest report reveals the project has hit yet another challenge.
DPWI spokesperson Lennox Mabaso explained that the appointment of the potential contractor could not be secured for the renovation project.

“It is anticipated to be re-advertised on October 24, with a closing date of November 22. The awarding of the tender is expected on January 27, and site handover is scheduled for February 6.”

This means that the actual construction and refurbishment work is unlikely to begin before February, months later than initially planned.

Court staff, who have long raised concerns about the poor state of the building, expressed disappointment at yet another delay.

“There was a sense of hope when they said they were going to renovate the court. The building is so old. The roof is leaking, and the rainy season is upon us,” said one staff member, who asked not to be named.

In a previous statement, DPWI spokesperson Thami Mchunu outlined an extensive scope of work that had been planned for the Boksburg court, including:
• Repairing the leaking roof and waterproofing the walls.
• Structural repairs.
• Replacement of damaged windows and doors.
• Interior painting and floor finish replacements.
• Sewer system upgrades.
• Installation of a new generator and air conditioning units.
• Refurbishment of ablution facilities and gatehouses.
• Improvements to perimeter fencing.
• Provision of temporary accommodation to support uninterrupted court operations.
The department also confirmed that all renovations would comply with local heritage by-laws to preserve the building’s historical integrity.

According to the DPWI, court services will not be relocated during the eventual construction period.

The project is expected to be executed in phases, with decanting solutions in place to allow court operations to continue.

For now, however, the court remains in its current condition.

Also Read: Renovations at the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court set commence mid-September

Also Read: Decrepit local court to finally get a facelift