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28/09/2012

Work has commenced on the construction of the much-anticipated new student accommodation at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University’s George campus at Saasveld.

“With an annual average growth rate of nearly 10% over the past three years, and a projected growth in student numbers from the current 1 250 to around 2 000 over the next few years, the additional accommodation capacity could not have materialised at a more opportune time” says Acting Campus Principal and Director of Operations, Martin Loubser.

The project, which is being executed as a total package by turn-key developer Majestic Sliver Trading (Pty) Ltd, will add an additional 78 beds (approximately 20%) to the existing on-campus student accommodation. The developer is responsible for all the disciplines, from Architect all the way through to the Contractor, while consultant, Aurecon South Africa (Pty) Ltd, has been appointed to act as NMMU’s representative for the project.

On completion the new complex will consists of three buildings, each with 13 double rooms, to accommodate a total of 78 students. It will have a total floor coverage of about 1 000 m² with approximately 12m² floor space provided for a double room. Provision has also been made for disabled students.

New Student Accommodation

The construction site is adjacent to the existing Stinkhout student house, and within close walking distance of sport facilities, the main administration building and lecture venues, complementing the existing student node.

“Various ‘green’ aspects were considered in the design, for example rain water harvesting, the use of heat-pumps as opposed to geysers and very few hard surfaces on the outside”, says Loubser. “The uniqueness of the surrounding houses was retained in the external appearance of the new student accommodation, but taking into consideration the elements that are conducive to a learning and living environment”.

The project team for the development includes the following:

  • Developer – Majestic Silver Trading (Pty) Ltd
  • Architect – Stauch Vorster
  • Quantity Surveyor – BTKM
  • Engineers – Goba
  • Contractor – Pro Khaya Construction

Allowance has been made for a six-month construction period for the new residence, with the anticipated completion of construction by 28 February 2013.  The total project cost is in the region of R10 million.

Contact information
Ms Alet van Tonder
Manager: Marketing & Corporate Relations
Tel: 27 44 801 5098
alet.vantonder@mandela.ac.za