Construction World November 2024

environment for taxi operations and commuter safety.” The taxi holding facility was integrated within the centre’s existing parking structure. It includes 165 parking bays, with 135 for standard minibus taxis and the remainder for larger long-distance minibuses. Access is controlled via license plate recognition, with separate entrances for short-distance and long-distance operators. The area is secured with fencing, and the parking layout was upgraded with energy efficient LED lighting and clear demarcation of bays. The holding facility also features utility areas, including a rest area with a kitchen, ablution facilities catering to disabled individuals and a wash bay. With a focus on the environment, sustainable design elements were incorporated such as sensor-based lighting and water efficient fixtures to reduce resource consumption. The dedicated wash bay encourages water conservation among taxi operators while providing a suitable vehicle cleaning area. As with all its contracts, Concor’s commitment to community upliftment extended beyond the project site with the company identifying needs within local communities. In this instance the company donated building materials to a nearby school for an upgrade project, collaborating with the professional team to support local education infrastructure. “Concor’s successful execution of the Menlyn Taxi Integration Project underscores our capability in handling complex projects fast track projects with precision and excellence,” Muller says. “This project not only improved the commuter experience at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre but also, once again, showcased our dedication to quality, safety, and community engagement.” 

to source, vet and employ SMME subcontractors, offering opportunities in trades such as brickwork, plasterwork, painting, paving and plumbing. Muller says that while the contract period was too short for a formal skills development programme, local labourers were given the chance to work on the project, gaining valuable experience and mentorship. The drop-off and pick-up facility is strategically located on the northern side of the centre, accessible from Atterbury Road. This facility enhances the movement of taxis, allowing for safe drop-off and pick-up of passengers. Commuters benefit from a designated pedestrian walkway leading directly into the mall, which is both safer and sheltered from the elements. The facility can accommodate around 40 taxis at any given time within its spacious footprint. The construction involved extensive groundwork, soil stabilisation, and paving to ensure durability under high traffic volumes. Security measures include fencing around the area and structural steel canopies with reinforced concrete foundations. The pedestrian walkways were also designed with aesthetic landscaping. In addition to the primary logistical infrastructure, provisions were made for registered informal traders to set up kiosks, offering food and other goods in a secure and sanitary environment with shelter from inclimate weather. Nearby, 24/7 accessible ablution facilities ensure safe and hygienic conditions for commuters and taxi operators. Muller explains that previously, taxis lined Lois Avenue on the eastern side of Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, creating hazardous conditions for both commuters and other vehicles. “The new facility alleviates these issues by providing a controlled

35 CONSTRUCTION WORLD NOVEMBER 2024