Constitution Hill will officially be opened on March 21, but construction will continue until 2006. Constitution Hill, home to the new Constitutional Court building, is the most significant building constructed by government in the 10 years since democratic elections in 1994.

The court, which begins work in the new building on February 16, is cooled by water running across rocks and vents that allow cool air to rise during the day and hot air to be distributed in the evenings. The waste management system is also environmentally sensitive.

The building itself was the result of an international competition won by South African architects Urban Solutions and Ohmm Design Workshop.

Letting opportunities have opened for 36000m² of office space and 2 000m² of retail property. The Hyatt group will also construct a limited-service hotel on the 9ha site.

The parking basement at the site is funded by Blue IQ, and with space for 1720 vehicles is one of the biggest parking garages in SA.

The old Victoria hospital will, over time, be converted into middle-rent and luxury apartments

A variety of government and nongovernment organisations have expressed interest in office space at the site. Restaurants owned by Nino's and Party Design, both run by black franchisees, have been appointed preferred bidders .

The Johannesburg Development Agency is also exploring a joint venture with a museum shop operator.

Feb 11 2004 07:42:51:000AM Business Day Reporter Business Day 1st Edition