Tourism around Alexandra will receive a major boost when the Alexandra Heritage Centre opens early next year.

The construction of the Alexandra Heritage Centre, situated in close proximity to the Mandela Yard, where the late former President Nelson Mandela lived in the early years of his life in Johannesburg – is nearing completion.

The Alexandra Heritage Centre Project is funded by National Department of Tourism, and is currently being implemented by the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA)   took over the construction of the centre in 2014 after it had stalled.

A professional team was appointed to assist with the implementation of the project, as well as a contractor to finish the structure that had remained unfinished for some time.

Work on the current structure started in February 2015 and it is anticipated that it will be completed by September 2016.

There number of issues that were experienced on the project since the JDA took over and these had to be resolved to ensure the continuation of the project. These include

  • The Rezoning and Consolidation of the stands- We are currently running with the process though the appointed Town Planners, the process is anticipated  to be completed in the near future.
  • Approval of the Site Development Plans (SDP) – SDP can only be submitted to the Council for approval once the rezoning and consolidation is concluded.
  • Installation of services: sewer, water and electricity are underway.

JDA, Chief Executive Officer Thanduxolo Mendrew says that all the issues tabulated are in progress and will be resolved soon. The structure of the building itself is complete and the exhibition part of the project will be completed by September 2016.

With its striking architectural design and versatile levels built to accommodate an interactive exhibition area along with spaces for community events, small business training and shops for local crafters and traders, the centre seeks to reflect the rich history of Alexandra and to feed off its unique energy concluded Mendrew.

Ends

Issued on behalf of the City of Johannesburg
By

Nthatisi Modingoane
City of Johannesburg
(011) 407 7000
082 467 9228
nthatisem@joburg.org.za

Project Contact person:

Siyabonga Genu
Johannesburg Development Agency
Cell: 071 675 1439
sgenu@jda.org.za