Contractor bails on Sheppie’s Justice Park
Mr Mchunu said the department needed assurance from the contractor through its lawyers that it was still capable of finishing the project, despite its financial difficulties.
The main contractor at the Port Shepstone Justice Park project has reportedly put the project on hold due to financial constraints.
This is the latest on the multi-million rand project, according to Thami Mchunu, spokesman for the Department of Public Works (National).
ALSO READ : No date set for completion of Port Shepstone Magistrate’s Court building
Mr Mchunu said the contractor, Basil Read, entered into voluntary business rescue, thus putting on hold many of its projects, including Justice Park.
“State attorneys are engaging with business rescue attorneys to determine if there is a way the contractor can still finish the project.”
Mr Mchunu said the department needed assurance from the contractor through its lawyers that it was still capable of finishing the project, despite its financial difficulties.
In 2014, the firm was awarded a R285-million tender to construct the complex which would include 16 courts, 19 offices and various holding cells with maximum security.
Initially, the project was scheduled for completion by September 22, 2016. However due to hiccups and challenges, the completion dates were pushed back, first to May 2018 and later to June 2, 2018.
The department has now been forced to postpone the completion date indefinitely until its lawyers are able to come to an agreement with the contractor and its legal representatives.
Basil Read was contacted for comment but had not responded at the time of going to press.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
