Construction work on the new Gauteng industrial development zone (IDZ), near the OR Tambo International Airport, has started, with civil engineering contractor Liviero at the end of October turning the first sod at the project.
 
The proposed IDZ is situated in Bonaero Park, on a site adjacent to the airport.

Liviero’s contract with the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency (GGDA), a new client, is valued at R209-million.

“The site is overgrown with blue gum trees and needs to be cleared,” says Liviero group CEO Neil Cloete.

“Bulk earthworks encompasses the construction of several platforms for new buildings to be constructed. We will be constructing new access roads and also upgrading the existing road. The services that we will install include storm water drainage, sewers and water reticulation.”
 
Liviero will also install new perimeter fencing, with high access-control closed-circuit television and electric fencing.

In addition, the contractor will build the zone’s new guard house, which incorporates access control featuring a state-of-the-art surveillance system with X-ray machines, explains Cloete.
 
Gauteng Economic Development, Environment, Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Lebogang Maile says the project should be seen as part of a programme to re-industrialise Gauteng, and to chart a new course for the economy by supporting value-adding, labour-intensive and innovative industries, especially agroprocessing, pharmaceuticals, electronics and automotive manufacturing.

“These are part of the eleven sectors earmarked for government intervention over the next few years.

“The facility will support industrial development in the area and give practical expression to our plans to turn Ekurhuleni into an aerotropolis. It will also offer investors access to clustered infrastructure. Its proximity to the OR Tambo International Airport makes it suitable for export-oriented production.”