The masterplan for the multimillion rand Westdene Dam Precinct upgrade has been approved and the first part of the project is expected to start in a matter of weeks.

Announcing the project at a public meeting at the Westdene Recreation Centre this week,Reggie Mokalapa, General Manager for Capital Infrastructure at Johannesburg City Parks & Zoo (JCP&Z), said work would be carried out in two phases.

Phase 1

Phase 1, which is estimated to cost the City R10-million, includes the following:

• Erection of a multipurpose sporting court;
• Building of play areas;
• Erection of Clear Vu security fencing and access gates along the perimeters of the park;
• Refurbishment of the eroded storm water system;
• Creation of a formal entrance area at the Lewes Road side; and
• Building of a cycle lane through the park.

The tender for this phase will be awarded once the evaluation processes have been completed.

Phase 2

Phase 2 is to be allocated R11.9-million in the City of Johannesburg’s 2016-2017 budget. It will include:

• Development of an ablution block and a parking area on the Ash Road side of the dam;
• Provision of lighting;
• Development of a jetty, an outdoor gym and a five-a-side sportsfield;
• Redevelopment of the existing play area;
• Paving of the Tenby-Thornton Street entrance; and
• Potential widening of the existing walkway along Lewes Road.

“This is an extremely exciting project and we as JCP&Z are very excited to be nearing the implementation phase,” said Mokalapa.

Some of the local small businesses and co-operatives will also benefit from the project.

Several work packages with a combined value of R500 000 under the Jozi@Work programme will be awarded to successful applicants. About 30% of the contract value will go to SMMEs.

Ward 69 Councillor Katja Naumann said the entire project was expected to be completed within two-and-a-half years.