The R394-million development undertaken by the Nelson Mandela Metro is aimed at supporting sustainable economic growth in the motor industry by grouping different technologies, suppliers and service providers for various customers.
Speaking at a Uitenhage-Despatch Development Initiative business breakfast, Schultz said this week tenders were issued on Wednesday for the first phase of the park's construction, which includes an access road, sewerage and electricity, security, gatehouse and warehouse.
"We are in an advanced stage with tenant negotiations and expect the first four to move in once the first phase is complete at the end of the year," Schultz said.
He declined to name the tenants at this stage, but said a fifth tenant would move in early next year and that 20% of the tenants would be from Gauteng.
All the tenants occupying the park in its first phase would only lease space, but Schultz did not rule out the possibility that private investors might move in during its later phases.
The development is expected to create 4,650 temporary jobs during construction and numerous permanent jobs with the relocation of parts suppliers to the park.
Also speaking at the breakfast was UDDI chief Thembela Zweni, who said the initiative had created about 400 jobs and had the potential to create more than 5 000 potential jobs.
A shortfall of R330-million restricted the initiative form reaching this potential.
Zweni called on private/public partnerships to create economic opportunities for Uitenhage, especially in the automotive, tourism industries - the key areas of UDDI's focus.
Eastern Province Herald
Publisher: Business Day
Source: Inet Bridge
