Construction World November 2024

BUILDING

Fast track project implementation UNDERSCORED BY SAFETY AWARD Concor once again showcased its remarkable ability to execute complex, fast track projects with exceptional efficiency and safety during the construction of the new drop-off and pick-up facility, along with the reconfiguration of an underground parking area into a taxi holding facility at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre. The company was honoured by the Master Builders Association (MBA) North, winning in the regional category for projects under R15 million. The MBA North regional safety competition saw 67 entries, including 60 principal contractors and seven sub-contractors.

Concor was honoured by the Master Builders Association (MBA) North, winning in the regional category for projects under R15 million, for the construction of the new drop-off and pick-up facility at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, along with the reconfiguration of an underground parking area into a taxi holding facility.

M enlyn Park Shopping Centre, one of South Africa's largest mega shopping centres, boasts a diverse array of over 500 shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities. The centre attracts a vast number of shoppers and visitors each month, necessitating a significant workforce to support its operations. While some commuters use personal vehicles, the majority rely on minibus taxis for transportation. To streamline this process and enhance the commuter experience, a Public-Private Partnership was established for the construction of the taxi holding facility. Concor Contract Manager, Martin Muller explains that the company is known for managing high-pressure construction programmes effectively, and applied attention to planning underpinned by effective programme management to ensure every phase of the project dovetailed seamlessly, meeting tight deadlines without compromising quality or safety.

“Our ability to deliver projects on time, within budget and to the highest safety standards was evident throughout this project,” he says. The project, initiated in February 2024 and completed by April 2024, was delivered on time and within budget, ready for the official opening by the Tshwane mayor. Despite the tight timeline, the project was executed without any incidents, a testament to the rigorous safety protocols implemented. The construction site, active within a live retail environment, required meticulous traffic management and pedestrian safety measures. A full-time safety officer ensured compliance with all safety procedures, leading to a Five Star safety rating from the Master Builders Association (MBA) North. Another of Concor’s significant strengths lies in involving local SMMEs and individuals from the communities where it operates. On this project, Concor engaged with community representatives

34 CONSTRUCTION WORLD NOVEMBER 2024