Inside Politics Reporter
The government of KwaZulu-Natal has launched its R110 million restoration programme at the historic old legislature precinct in Ulundi.
“This precinct is not just a building; it is a symbol of KwaZulu-Natal’s legacy and the visionary leadership of His Excellency Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who sought to bring government closer to the people,” Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli said on Friday at the handover of the project to a contractor.
The premier was joined by IFP MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, and DA MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure, Martin Meyer.
In September, Buthelezi and Meyer signed a memorandum of understanding regarding the refurbishment. Once complete, the building will be handed to Cogta.
KwaZulu-Natal is littered with unused or derelict government buildings, which Meyer’s department has been selling off, leasing or upgrading for government use. Earlier this year, the department released 86 buildings and vacant land plots, combined.
Described at the time as “dead weight”, Meyer said the disposal of the R120,7 million worth of assets would save the department R24,3 million in annual rates.
At Friday’s launch, Ntuli said the first phase of work would entail the replacement and repair of roofing infrastructure, set to cost about R20 million.
The entire restoration package was described as a “critical milestone” in preserving and upgrading a site of historical, cultural and administrative significance.
The old provincial legislature building was formerly the seat of the KwaZulu-Natal government until the move to Pietermaritzburg. The building has been largely under-utilised since 2004 and suffered storm damage, general decay and maintenance neglect.
Ntuli said that sub-contracting, employment and procurement opportunities from the project would benefit Ulundi and the surrounding communities.
He said the province had “ambitious plans” for the precinct, including a new nursing college, for which a contractor had already been appointed.
“In addition, Zululand University is set to establish an extension campus in Ulundi, complete with a student residence, further reinforcing the town’s role as a centre for education and development.
“This precinct will not only be restored but revitalised to serve future generations. Our efforts here are about more than brick and mortar, they are about dignity, service delivery, and a lasting legacy,” said Ntuli.
INSIDE POLITICS