02 Dec Icon Group gives new life to century-old building, Johannesburg CDB
02 December 2021. Johannesburg is a city shrouded in history, with many buildings being constructed as far back as 1860. Various of these historical sites still stand today in the Johannesburg central business district (CBD), reminding passers-by of the rich history of the city while more modern structures develop on the periphery.
“However, in some cases these buildings have not been well-preserved and present health and safety risks. They also stand empty and derelict, presenting opportunities for renewal and better use of inner-city spaces,” comments Icon Group MD Wayne Neary. In October 2020, Icon was brought on board to execute bulk earthworks and demolition in the Johannesburg CBD for what will eventually become the new Title Deeds Office for the city. The project was centred around a 120-year-old heritage building which needed to be kept in-tact.
“I am proud to report that we have successfully completed our scope of work on this project without disturbing the existing building façade,” says Neary. “It was a challenging project which was at times unpredictable, but the Icon team stayed true to our promise to deliver to client requirements. The front of the structure remains in intact, despite extensive demolitions and 15-metre-deep excavations which were undertaken.”
The project value for Icon’s scope of work amounted to approximately R20-million, with the wider project having been awarded to GVK-Siya Zama Building Contractors. The site stands on 85 Anderson Street and belongs to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. It has been standing derelict for many years.
Neary believes Icon was well-positioned for this project, due to their extensive experience in the area. “We are delighted to have added this project to our growing portfolio. We have handed over the site which is now ready for construction of the new building, set to be approximately 12 storeys high. Having gained great experience, we look forward to doing similar projects in the future as the city continues to evolve.”
About ICON Group
The ICON Group, established over 30 years ago, is the trusted provider of bulk earthworks, demolitions and other related civil engineering and construction services that are needed to get a commercial, industrial or mining site into an ideal state of build readiness. The ICON Group has an unrivalled reputation for delivering on specification and well within the deadlines provided. E
Contact:
Wayne Neary, Managing Director
010 591 6828