Construction World June 2019

Phase 1 of SANDTON GATE DEVELOPMENT on schedule Abland and Tiber, joint developers of the Sandton Gate precinct, are on track to complete Phase 1 of the much anticipated mixed-use development. The first phase will include 15 500 m commercial space, 13 000 m P-grade office space and a 2 500m² Planet Fitness positioned on the piazza level of the building. Confirmed tenants, who include Mimecast will call Sandton Gate home from 1 November 2019.

“D ue to the high demand following the launch of phase 1, we aim to break ground for phase 2 in 2020. We’ve redesigned phase 2 to include more retail offerings that will include a grocery store and pharmacy as anchor tenants, as well as a hotel and a holistic medical offering. Other amenities will include restaurants, coffee shops, salons and other convenience stores,” says Grant Silverman, Marketing and Leasing Director, Abland. The residential component of the precinct, which will comprise 137 units of 2 and 3 bed penthouses, has launched and infrastructural work and the bulk earthworks have started. With the completion of residential first phase envisaged for Q4 2020, the developers are aiming to hit pre-sale target by August this year which means construction of top structure will commence Q4 2019. D eveloped by Own Haven Housing Association and contracted to WBHO, this 630-unit housing development provides much-needed integrated accommodation for community members having to travel vast distances to work daily. The project broke ground in February 2018 and is on track for completion in December 2019 with a number of the units already occupied. “Rifeng was chosen as the preferred supplier of all hot and cold-water applications for the Milkwood development,” explained Glenn Fisher, National Sales Manager of Rifeng Southern Africa. “Our proven track record of delivering accredited, high quality materials within strict timeframes, onsite service visits and back-up availability secured us this particular contract.” Rifeng piping

Jurgens Prinsloo, Managing Director, Abland notes “With every project of this size we couldn’t ignore the need for road upgrades. Abland undertook extensive traffic impact assessments to get an idea of the traffic impact once the project is complete. As part of the infrastructural advancements, a new intersection on William Nicol between Mattie and Sandton Drive is currently underway. There will also be an introduction of additional lanes to ensure seamless access to the precinct and decrease potential congestion around the area. Ultimately, there are seven substantial upgrades that we’re doing ranging from the Peter Place intersection, Republic intersection, Mattie intersection, Sandton Drive and William Nicol.” Phase 2 of the development will be ready for occupation Q1 2021. 

PIPING FOR PORT ELIZABETH PROJECT

The quality, sustainable products and personalised service saw piping installation specialists, Rifeng, selected to install all necessary piping at the recently opened Milkwood Gardens Social Housing Development in Walmer, Port Elizabeth.

significant cost savings when installing Rifeng piping over traditional copper. “In the current economy, where budgets are often restricted, developers are turning to sustainable products and dedicated service providers,” explained Fisher. “This means a desirable end result that will satisfy the needs of residents without ongoing maintenance concerns going forwards.” The full range PEX Crimp system installed at Milkwood Gardens is extremely robust and delivers a low thermal conductivity coefficient. This translates to fewer energy losses throughout the system – reducing waste, saving costs and creating a sustainable project overall. In addition, the system is fully concealed, making for sleek-line aesthetics while also protecting the piping from the risk of theft or weathering. Rifeng is a specialist importer

of plumbing pipes and fittings for distribution to wholesale, retail and export markets within South Africa, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Tanzania. They have gained a reputation as a quality, reliable product with many large-scale developments, such as Milkwood Gardens, using the Rifeng brand. 

products adhere to local South African National Standards Bureau (SABS) specifications as well as global standards, boasting more than 50 certifications worldwide. This is owing to the fact that these easy- to-install, non-corrosive, leak-free piping products boast a lifespan of up to 80 years with a 20-year no-corrosion guarantee. In addition, there are

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CONSTRUCTION WORLD JUNE 2019