New SA green star rated shared services centre opens

The newly constructed Khayelitsha Shared Services Centre and commissioned by the Department of Transport and Public Works for the provincial departments of agriculture, education, social development and health has opened. Administrative staff based there will offer support in the delivery of government services in the Cape Town metropolitan municipality.

This US$5.5 million structure is the first public building in the Western Cape to receive a Five Star Green Star Design Rating by the Green Building Council of South Africa. The building is strategically located and near to the main transport interchanges and features a safe, clearly marked walking route that is separates pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

The internal temperature is adjusted automatically during the night to provide a productive and comfortable environment for employees, 85% of the offices have natural light and 90% have direct access to the outside environment. Among the government services that will be offered from the Khayelitsha Shared Services Centre agriculture, Education, social Development and Health.

The Department is committed to creating Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) employment opportunities through its infrastructure and related projects. A total of US$364000 was spent on local sub-contractors, US$359000 on local appointments, and US$27200 on local suppliers.