New Thembalethu health facility is almost complete

The construction of a new community day centre in Thembalethu, George, is expected to be complete on 8 December 2017, if all goes according to plan.

This R66 million Department of Transport and Public Works project was commissioned for the Western Cape Department of Health in July 2016.

The project includes the building of an infectious disease unit, chronic care unit, acute treatment unit, and a pharmacy. The facility will also make provision for oral health, women and child health, and rehabilitation and therapy services.

This single storey facility is expected to promote efficient healthcare, with low maintenance requirements. There is easy access to roof service spaces. Green features include natural ventilation and light, rainwater harvesting, and energy-saving technology.

The project makes use of labour-intensive methods that provide a limited number of short-term work opportunities and skills training for local people. To date, R14 million has been spent on targeted enterprises and R2 million on local labour from the Eden District. In addition, local people have also benefited from on-site skills training opportunities.

This project helps to give effect to the Western Cape Government Healthcare 2030 aim of providing high-quality health facilities at district hospital and primary healthcare level.

Join the Department on Twitter @WCGovTPW under the hashtag #constructionWC