New Municipal Office Complex

A historic ground breaking ceremony for the construction of the New Municipal Office was held on 18 July 2008.

The start of this construction project has been long overdue - over a decade since the Municipality identified the need for more space. The current setup became totally impractical seeing that the various sections are scattered all over town.

Officiating at the historic event the Mayor, Councillor G N Shitaleni informed everyone that design proposals were invited from Architects registered with the Namibia Institute of Architects for the proposed development of the Municipal Office Complex which closed during June 2006. Three companies submitted offers.

Messrs Mackintosh Lautenbach Architect’s Associates was appointed for the design of the new Municipal Office Complex as their proposal was considered to be:

1. the most cost effective (optimizing energy usage, natural lighting, ventilation etc) and operational efficient design.
2. incorporating materials in design to minimize maintenance and to reflect the character of Swakopmund (double storey that looks like single storey).
3. including attractive and useful landscaping that reflects the character of Swakopmund. Providing a focused identity to the complex reflecting the image of the Municipal Council of Swakopmund.

The Office Complex will be a two-storey multiple wing complex which will house all the different departments under one roof. This will not only provide better office accommodation for staff members and provide a safe and efficient working environment but it will also enable Council to provide improved and professional customer services to the public who are in actual fact the owners and custodians of the building.

The New Municipal Office Complex will replace both the main Municipal Building constructed during 1907 as well as the Altes Ampsgericht building which was completed during 1906.

Tenders calling for the construction of the new Municipal Office Complex which closed during March 2008, and four companies submitted their offers. The tender for the New Municipal Office Complex was awarded to LeBau CC for the total amount of N$61 113 126.36 (inclusive of VAT) and a construction period of 30 months.

Council budgeted N$20 million on the 2008/2009 financial year in order to commence with the construction of the complex.

And this new office complex - which will better serve our customers, the public, and our staff members - is a real investment in the future of our town which is an economic engine that is constantly developing.

The Mayor advised that the project should not only make a few ripples in the local economy, but should be seen as a long term investment of the Municipality. Provision will be made by Council in the next 2 financial years for the necessary funds to complete the project.

The New Municipal Office Complex is centrally located and within easy reach of all parts of the town.  In conclusion the Mayor assured the Contractor of Council’s support and co-operation during the various phases of the project.

Provision is also being made for the construction of the new Fire Station on the same premises. The tender for construction of this building is due to be awarded soon.