SMEC South Africa commences infrastructure upgrades for landmark urban development

Our South Africa team is thrilled to be appointed to oversee the upgrade of Kassier Road, a critical piece of infrastructure whose upgrade is not only long overdue but will enable the development of Westown, Shongweni. Located in the Outer West of KwaZulu-Natal, Westown is envisaged to be a vibrant mixed-use precinct that is anticipated to generate some R15-billion in new investment over the next 10 years making it the new economic hub of the region.

4km of roadway will be upgraded from a single carriageway to a dual carriageway. The scope includes appurtenant civil services, retaining walls, two major bridge structures and a pedestrian bridge. SMEC’s Urban Development, Structures and Pavement functions will work together to oversee tender documentation, procurement, contract administration and construction monitoring.

Speaking on the appointment, Kresen Manicum (Functional General Manager, Urban Development) said:

“We’re excited to be a part of this catalytic project and look forward to collaborating with Fundamentum Property Group, in conjunction with the eThekwini Municipality, to deliver on their vision of an urban node that is characterised by innovation and sustainability and spans a broad socio-economic profile, representative of the wider South African context. We look forward to collaborating with local stakeholders to ensure Westown becomes a true asset for the area.”

The Westown Development will be led by Fundamentum Property Group through the construction of its own buildings as well as through development partnerships, and the sale of development rights where appropriate. Market interest is strong with particular reference to residential and logistics/warehousing.

There is development approval for 170 000m² of warehouses and commercial, business and office space, as well as a 100-bed hospital. The development is expected to create 1,500 jobs during construction and 2,500 permanent jobs once it has been completed. SMEC’s involvement in the project began in September 2022 and will continue until November 2024.

Fundamentum CEO, Carlos Correia commented,

“Westown is a place – the new City of the West. A ground-breaking, locally driven initiative that connects people with spaces and experiences, bringing new opportunities to live, work and thrive. Now that the first tender for the upgrade of Kassier Road has been awarded to a stellar local development team, including contractors Stefanutti Stocks and engineering consultants SMEC South Africa, we are eager to get moving.”

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South Africa

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Sustainability Construction Phase Services Roads, Highways & Bridges

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