# Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium - 46,500 - Port Elizabeth [Archive]

Vanite

October 31st, 2006, 05:21 AM

Hey South African soccer lovers. New to this forum. South African living in Vancouver Canada here, but grew up in Pee Eee. I guess that will have to do for now since you don't seem to have any takers actually living there. Will write something in the "Introduce Yourself" thread within the next few days.

The stadium site is on North End Lake in the Korsten area/suburb of PE. From what I remember one side of the lake is residential (poor White in the days of apartheid) and the other side industrial. The lake attracts the odd fisherman or powerboater, but I believe it's quite polluted (PE is an industrial city after all). So I guess the fishing is catch and release. It's not remotely close to the beachfront entertainment and hotel area of the city (which is actually quite nice and laid-back) so pretty much all of the foreign tourists attending matches will have to be bussed in from there. On the other hand it is well situated for long term susutainability since it is closer to the previously black residential areas where, unless things have changed in the last few years, is where many of the soccer supporters are likely to live.

Stadium renders look good. The lake might not be the greatest around but it's great that the sadium is on a body of water.

The World Cup is going to be crazy in SA. It's great that it's in the SA Winter so the regular Summer tourists visit Dec to Mar anyway, then in Jun/Jul you get a boost of up to 500,000 foreign tourists. The atmosphere will be spectacular. Even here in Vancouver the local supporters were out on the streets in full force after their teams won a match in this past World Cup. The Italian supporters especialy just took over the main entertainmant streets downtown after every game Italy won in the scond round. And when they won the final they obviously went beserk. And this is in Vancouver, which is hardly a hotbed of global soccer!

But yes, the area around the PE stadium is nondescript, and they will need to arrange bus transport for many of the fans attending matches. Anybody think there is a massive biz opportunity here? South Africa doesn't have enough luxury busses. Southern Africa doesn't have enough luxury busses. But the UK has loads. They are also right hand drive. So, what about leasing a load of them from UK companies for say three months. Drive them on to whatever cargo ships they'll fit onto, ship them to SA together with parts, maybe service personell an so on, use them for the month and a bit of World Cup madness and ship them back to the UK afterwards. What do you think? Anybody have any idea of the costs of doing this? Also will the SA government allow for temporary importation and not levy duties?

Pule

October 31st, 2006, 06:58 AM

Vanite

October 31st, 2006, 07:44 AM

Hey Pule. Thanks for the welcome.

I don't really have a problem with the busses in SA. When I was a student I often used to take Translsux and Intercape all over the place (This was before low cost air carriers). The trip between PE and Cape Town is great - really scenic, and the atmosphere on board geniunly friendly. I just don't know whether there will be enough of busses to transport tourists the short distances from their hotel to the stadiums during the World Cup. Surely Translux and similar companies aren't going to buy busses just for 2010. But then I guess if they think demand remain high afterwards they would. But I still think, if there is a shortage importing busses from outside the country may be a good solution.

Durbsboi

October 31st, 2006, 08:33 AM

Hey Welcome Vanite, nice to have someone who was from the P.E area.

dysan1

October 31st, 2006, 08:02 PM

Thanx for the great over view of the area!! so it seems like alot of work will need to be done on the surrounding zone for the success of the stadium. thats good, for it migth lead to further dev of that lake, which should be an assett to PE.

pity it is so far from the entertainment belt tho.

i look forward to hearing a lot more about this city. sadly no one living there wants to join our forum! pity

Mo Rush

October 31st, 2006, 09:11 PM

World class city coastline revamp plan takes shape

31 Oct 2006 - Inet Bridge -

Intro
A coastal development project which forms part of a R116m facelift planned for Port Elizabeth's coast is on track
By Max Matavire

A coastal development project which forms part of a R116-million facelift planned for Port Elizabeth's coast is on track.

The project, which includes the construction of a walkway and cycle path stretching from St George's Strand in the east to Flat Rock in the west, is among the few priority Vision 2020 projects. It is even expected to extend to Sardinia Bay.

During a presentation to the recreation and cultural services committee yesterday, Donald McGillivray of consultants Afri-Coast Engineers, described the project as "massive", adding that it could be completed by 2020.

"It has a major and significant impact to Nelson Mandela Bay. It's an exciting project," said McGillivray. He said its major priorities were the provision of a clean environment - clean water and clean beaches - easy access to the beaches for all communities and, in a safe and secure environment.

The project has been divided into four zones for developmental purposes as it cannot be tackled all in one go.

Zone One is the St Georges Strand where work has already started in upgrading and improving facilities at Wells Estate which already boasts Blue Flag status. Blue Flag status is an international award given to a beach with clean water and adequate facilities for bathers and swimmers.

Development of the walkway and the cycle path has already started. It will pass through the Swartkops River Mouth to New Brighton Beach, pass through the Deal Party coastline and then to Kings Beach, Hobie Beach, Pollok Beach and Flat Rock.

McGillivray said Wells Estate beach had great potential, adding it would serve about 300 000 people from Motherwell and new settlements which the council had developed recently in that area.

"We want to make it safe for recreational purposes. The cycle path can also be used for sporting, recreational and even for the Ironman event. We are improving the beaches and uplifting the environment."

He said the most demanding aspect would be the New Brighton Beach to the Deal Party coastline, the area around Algorax and the Fishwater Flats water treatment works.

McGillivray said the coastline in this area was degraded, and needed massive upgrading. This will involve discussions with stakeholders to deal with the stench coming from the water treatment works and the coal emissions from Algorax.

He said this development would also be linked to the 2010 World Cup stadium, adding that companies like Transnet and National Ports Authority would have to be brought on board.

Dune restoration is already taking place at King's and Pollock beaches. There is funding in the municipal budget for the next three years to implement the project.

"It is a high priority project, but will have to be taken in stages. It can go up to 2020 as it is likely to extend to Sardinia Bay," said McGillivray.

He said the aesthetics would be greatly improved, with extra lighting. Close circuit cameras would be installed and operated from a central control room at the South End Fire Station.

About 15 projects have been identified in the municipality's integrated beachfront development plan.

Eastern Province Herald

Harkeb

November 1st, 2006, 05:02 AM

^ should go into the PE thread. Anyway, sounds awesome, But as I dont know PE, I can't picture the development. Some graphics would be nice to go with this.

dysan1

November 1st, 2006, 07:21 PM

^^ it was in the thread already

Mo Rush

November 9th, 2006, 05:13 PM

Port Elizabeth stadium specs

07 Nov 2006 - Inet Bridge -

Intro
Tenderers must be registered on the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's suppliers' database
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has called tender C5420(D), which closes at 11am on November 30, for the 40,000 permanent seat capacity and 8,000 modular seat capacity stadium it wishes to build for the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

Tenderers must be registered on the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality's suppliers' database - if they aren't they can call Tradeworld on 086 122 557 to register - and they must have a CIDB 9GB contractor grading.

Documents can be obtained for a non-refundable R100, payable in crossed cheques made out to the Nelson Mandela Metro, from the Information Centre on the Ground Floor of Brister House, Govan Mbeki Avenue, Port Elizabeth, or from the Municipal Stores at 17 Sellick Street, Uitenhage.

A compulsory briefing session will be held at 10am on November 9 at the Imatu Social Club, 70 Prince Alfred Road, North End, Port Elizabeth.

Clearly marked, completed tenders can be deposited in the tender boxes in Brister House or at the Municipal Offices, Market Street, Uitenhage. They will be opened simultaneously in the conference room on the 17th Floor of Brister House and in the conference room on the first floor of the Uitenhage Municipal Offices shortly after the deadline.

The information centre's phone number is (041)506-2432, and James Robertson can be contacted to sort out problems.

His land line is (041) 373-9127, fax is (041) 373-9131 and his e-mail address is JamesR@btmpe. co.za.

Business Times

Mo Rush

November 17th, 2006, 12:47 PM

R900m for soccer stadium officially now on the way

By Max Matavire Metro Editor

NELSON Mandela Bay has now received its allocation of close to R900-million of the R14,9-billion which the national treasury announced two weeks ago for the construction and upgrading of 2010 World Cup stadiums and related aspects by the nine host cities.

The municipality received an official letter from the national treasury this week confirming the allocation. Municipal manager Graham Richards said yesterday that the money would be released in batches over a threeyear period.

“We have been allocated close to what we asked for as the local organising committee. It comes as a conditional grant – conditional because it has to be used solely for stadium construction, and not for other uses.”

Cape Town announced this week that it had received R1,9-billion. Construction of the new stadiums should start by January next year and Richards says they are on schedule.

The 40 000-seater multi-purpose Nelson Mandela Bay stadium will be built in North End at an estimated cost of R711-million and should be completed by 2008. Its structural fitness will be tested in 2009 when it hosts the Confederations Cup which will feature teams from Africa, South America, Europe, Asia and Oceania. Among the five venues to host the Confederations Cup – Loftus, Ellis Park, Mangaung and Royal Bafokeng – Nelson Mandela Bay is the only venue to be getting a new stadium.

Afro-pessimism is a major challenge identified since South Africa was selected to be the host of the 2010 World Cup. However, Fifa has on numerous occasions reiterated that the country will host the “best World Cup”, even better than this year‘s event.

Five road-construction tenders have already been awarded, with many more in the process of being awarded in preparation for the event. The five are the upgrading of Diaz and Pearl roads and the linking of Avenue A and Matomela and Seyisi roads in New Brighton and KwaZakhele.

“The three will form one of the feeder roads for buses and taxis,” said municipal assistant transport manager Greg Pryce-Lewis, adding that these contracts were valued at about R50-million.

Last week, the Nelson Mandela Bay municipal committee tasked with preparations for the 2010 Soccer World Cup vowed to resign if Port Elizabeth‘s soccer stadium was not complete by the end of 2008. Tenders for the construction of the stadium close at the end of this month.

Prospective tenderers were taken on a site inspection tour last week.

mmatavire@johnnicec.co.za

Mo Rush

November 29th, 2006, 01:35 PM

Construction starts at World Cup site

29 Nov 2006 - Inet Bridge -

Intro
The Nelson Mandela Bay World Cup soccer stadium site has been transformed into a hive of activity with workers and construction vehicles getting down to business
By Bianca Capazorio

The Nelson Mandela Bay World Cup soccer stadium site has been transformed into a hive of activity with workers and construction vehicles getting down to business.

Earthworks have already begun and a massive storm water drain is under construction, with a deep trench already dug.

When The Herald visited the site last week, a number of construction vehicles were grading the area and removing the sand and rubble.

Some digging for the basement level of the stadium had already started.

Municipal spokesman Lourens Schoeman said the activity was the start of the project, which would prepare the site for construction to start.

"So far they've demolished the old Parks Rugby structures and they are busy with the earthworks. They are preparing the site for actual construction to begin, so they're doing things like digging for the foundations and working on the drainage," Schoeman said.

He said the contract to build the stadium would be awarded at the end of this year and construction of the stadium would start in February.

Tenders for five roads feeding into the stadium have already been announced.

Last week, the municipality announced that it had received its share of the World Cup construction pie from the national treasury - close to R900-million - allowing it to start on the 40 000-seater stadium.

The stadium would, however, be able to accommodate an additional 10 000 to 15 000 people for the World Cup, Schoeman said. The stadium, near the North End Lake, is expected to cost more than R700-million and should be completed by 2008, in time for the Confederations Cup in 2009.

It will host first and second round matches in the World Cup, while many hope that it may also stage a semi-final or the third- place playoff.

Earlier this month the entire Nelson Mandela Bay municipal committee tasked with preparations for the 2010 Soccer World Cup vowed to resign if Port Elizabeth's soccer stadium was not completed by the end of 2008.

Eastern Province Herald

Molokai

December 5th, 2006, 12:02 PM

Good going PE, glad to see things are moving down there. Sure hope we can get our stadium built in time.

Mo Rush

January 28th, 2007, 01:22 PM

http://www.gmp-architekten.de/typo3temp/pics/524d9e0f04.jpg

Snoop Dogg

February 24th, 2007, 06:28 AM

Compiled by the Government Communication and Information System
---------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 23 Feb 2007
Title: Construction of 2010 PE stadium begins next month
---------------------------------------------------------------

By Bongani Mlangeni; tel: (012) 314-2404

The construction of the Nelson Mandela Bay Multi-Purpose Stadium to host some of the 2010 FIFA World Cup soccer matches in Port Elizabeth is to commence in earnest next month.

The announcement was made on Thursday by the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality's (NMBMM) Executive Mayor Ms Nondumiso Maphazi.

This was after the municipality awarded a tender to build the stadium to Grinaker-LTA / Interbeton Ibhayi Joint Venture.

Spokesperson for the NMBMM, Mr Roland Williams said in terms of this contract the Grinaker-LTA / Interbeton Ibhayi Joint Venture will commence the construction from March 2007 and complete it in November next year.

We are extremely pleased that the complex tender process has been concluded successfully with the awarding by the Municipal Manager Mr Graham Richards.

"The core component of Grinaker-LTA / Interbeton Ibhayi Joint Venture is a South African public company which has a strong local connection through its empowerment partners," Mr Williams.

He said the project was the fifth and largest component of the stadium construction at a cost R1.155 billion (tenders previously awarded include bulk earthworks, bulk services and piling) and the largest single contract by value ever awarded by the NMBMM.

Grinaker-LTA / Interbeton Ibhayi Joint Venture, Mr Williams said, was chosen for its extensive international experience in the construction of stadia.

The municipality has confidence that the two parties (municipalit and Grinaker-LTA / Interbeton Ibhayi Joint Venture) would work together to build a world class stadium that would be ready to stage the Confederation Cup in 2009.

The Municipality, he said, with the assistance of its appointed professional team in conjunction with the World Cup 2010 Local Organising Committee Technical Team developed comprehensive specifications for the stadium which is both compliant with FIFA requirements and sustainable as an asset within the Metro.

Mr Williams said the NMBMM was optimistic that it would meet the deadline to complete the stadium as set by FIFA, Local Organising Committee and the National Treasury.

* The following stadia will be constructed or upgraded:Soccer City stadium in Gauteng - upgraded to have 95 000 seats;
* Peter Mokaba Sports Complex in Polokwane - will have 46 000 seats;
* Greenpoint Stadium in Cape Town - will have 70 000 seats;
* King Senzangakhona in Durban - will have 70 000 seats;
* Port Elizabeth Stadium - 48 000 seats and the
* Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.

All the stadia are expected to be completed b 2009 - a year before the competition started.

The following stadiums are to be finished next year and will be ready for the FIFA Confederation Cup matches.

The Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria will also be upgraded for a period of 18 months as compared to Stuttgart stadium's 58 months.

Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg will be upgraded and have 61 006 seats.

Mangaung Stadium (Bloemfontein) will be upgraded to host 48 000 capacity crowd.

Royal Bafokeng will also be upgraded and will have 42 000 seats. - BuaNews

dysan1

February 24th, 2007, 11:19 AM

SEE!!! Grinaker get this one. not as if they not getting projects or money flowing in!!

But work to start in march for november 2008 completion? 21 months? really?? i somehow doubt

Mo Rush

February 24th, 2007, 11:24 AM

SEE!!! Grinaker get this one. not as if they not getting projects or money flowing in!!

But work to start in march for november 2008 completion? 21 months? really?? i somehow doubt

I think that article is a bit confused. March 2009 is more realistic, and a 24 month construction period is realistic and achievable for this stadium.

Mo Rush

March 31st, 2007, 05:12 PM

http://img.stern.de/_content/56/64/566470/250-06084906_250.jpg

piellejean

April 3rd, 2007, 04:53 PM

Some Pics of Construction Site: Date: 04 April 2007

http://img78.imageshack.us/img78/485/pic1mk0.jpg

http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/4619/pic2ma3.jpg

http://img114.imageshack.us/img114/290/pic3oz6.jpg

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/5931/pic4fr2.jpg

HoustonTXUSA

April 3rd, 2007, 05:44 PM

^^ sweet pics....

Mo Rush

April 3rd, 2007, 06:12 PM

OMW you are a STAR!!...the view is great and the setting is even better than the background in the renders. Good stuff...you're our official PE stadium update man. shot dot.

dysan1

April 3rd, 2007, 07:53 PM

Thanx bud...good pics...the sand is bloody white!!!

In the last pic you can clearly see the city, how far from the city centre and beachfront hotels is it? in km and time

piellejean

April 4th, 2007, 12:11 AM

I will try and post monthly updates.

There are a couple of access roads being developed that will smooth traffic basically in all directions. I will get some pics and upload.

It's about 7-10 minutes to the beachfront (assuming use of the freeway) but there is going to be alot of accommodation in central which is about 7 minutes away (assuming use of the freeway).

I think alot of development with start happening around the stadium so there might be some hotels along the lake which is a good idea i think.

Mo Rush

April 4th, 2007, 12:16 AM

Durbsboi

April 4th, 2007, 09:01 AM

Awesome pic's Pielle, nice to have some one from the area updating us.
keep it up buddy

dysan1

April 4th, 2007, 01:03 PM

Thanx so much piellejean!! welcome to the site.

There is an intro thread in the shebeen section, it would be great if you told us a bit about yourself.

hsark

April 4th, 2007, 01:51 PM

haha sweet we got pics again thanks pielle j

Mo Rush

April 10th, 2007, 04:09 PM

http://www.images24.co.za/FotoWeb/FWbin/preview.dll/000054882.jpg?D=D6B32247489322F59749DC867D12FCAE21B33641E6CE19EC2C07CDDEE16AC2BFBE4DA37ECD1D68517B02521C3741C40D501C8AD787F0D241AD38CA67929893B910BA49D9D7941FA94EBBC7233AE56C5F2C2FCD1B97F4E0AFBD0A5D26C54CDE0B9287E13A4A033D32BA5958EAF6C0F13808B4C3A1A51739C5D62DD5D72C8F584B64BD01B4B40C0E0122ECE42035452F5B3A5A1A538C1E4B10B33B43E44D65A5C00EC848A7B616171A45B2AC694E8B86BED84D037495D99DAD
http://www.images24.co.za/FotoWeb/FWbin/preview.dll/000054880.jpg?D=D6B32247489322F59749DC867D12FCAE21B33641E6CE19EC2C07CDDEE16AC2BFBE4DA37ECD1D68517B02521C3741C40D501C8AD787F0D241AD38CA67929893B910BA49D9D7941FA94EBBC7233AE56C5F2C2FCD1B97F4E0AFC97F7FE8A27DC2B7DB491FCDA1F10E48BA5958EAF6C0F13808B4C3A1A51739C5D62DD5D72C8F584BFC53E0CC5ED46F8622ECE42035452F5B3A5A1A538C1E4B10B33B43E44D65A5C00EC848A7B616171A45B2AC694E8B86BED84D037495D99DAD
http://www.images24.co.za/FotoWeb/FWbin/preview.dll/000054878.jpg?D=D6B32247489322F59749DC867D12FCAE21B33641E6CE19EC2C07CDDEE16AC2BFBE4DA37ECD1D68517B02521C3741C40D501C8AD787F0D241AD38CA67929893B910BA49D9D7941FA94EBBC7233AE56C5F2C2FCD1B97F4E0AF0C9F23D1420CA8831B3EA5CCCCA683F6BA5958EAF6C0F13808B4C3A1A51739C5D62DD5D72C8F584B1A41A344786B56A922ECE42035452F5B3A5A1A538C1E4B10B33B43E44D65A5C00EC848A7B616171A45B2AC694E8B86BED84D037495D99DAD
http://www.images24.co.za/FotoWeb/FWbin/preview.dll/000054877.jpg?D=D6B32247489322F59749DC867D12FCAE21B33641E6CE19EC2C07CDDEE16AC2BFBE4DA37ECD1D68517B02521C3741C40D501C8AD787F0D241AD38CA67929893B910BA49D9D7941FA94EBBC7233AE56C5F2C2FCD1B97F4E0AF9B9B5D71272701EF9287E13A4A033D32BA5958EAF6C0F13808B4C3A1A51739C5D62DD5D72C8F584B7F48D716A8D7B74022ECE42035452F5B3A5A1A538C1E4B10B33B43E44D65A5C00EC848A7B616171A45B2AC694E8B86BED84D037495D99DAD
http://www.images24.co.za/FotoWeb/FWbin/preview.dll/000054881.jpg?D=D6B32247489322F59749DC867D12FCAE21B33641E6CE19EC2C07CDDEE16AC2BFBE4DA37ECD1D68517B02521C3741C40D501C8AD787F0D241AD38CA67929893B910BA49D9D7941FA94EBBC7233AE56C5F2C2FCD1B97F4E0AF30B38A7179E8CEF8DC5325D67CFA870ABA5958EAF6C0F13808B4C3A1A51739C5D62DD5D72C8F584B97A9F72A8E277C2922ECE42035452F5B3A5A1A538C1E4B10B33B43E44D65A5C00EC848A7B616171A45B2AC694E8B86BED84D037495D99DAD

Inertia

May 25th, 2007, 11:32 AM

Construction steams ahead at Port Elizabeth stadium

By: Nelendhre Moodley
Published: 24 May 07 - 9:25

http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/image.article.php?ai_id=31602

Contractors at the new 45 000-seater Nelson Mandela Bay stadium in Port Elizabeth, which is on schedule for completion by July 2009, expect to start subsurface drainage, raker beam fabrication, columns, and precast seating elements, in the next three to four weeks, metro spokesperson Lourens Schoeman told Engineering News Online on Thursday.

He said that, so far, the bulk water supply and bulk sewer discharge had been completed with the bulk stormwater 95% completedd and earthworks 98% complete.

“Piling is 30% completed and power caps are 12%. Excavation is 98% completed. Contractors are currently setting up a precast yard, and are awaiting the delivery of high-rise cranes,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the challenge of a high-water table as a result of a lake at the north end of the stadium, had been solved by the construction of a channel to take away water seepage and lake overflow.

“We have rerouted the channel and it does not pose a challenge anymore.”

The stadium will cost around R1,15-billion.

Grinaker-LTA has won the government contract to build the stadium, along with Interbeton, part of Royal BAM Group of Holland.
Edited by: Liezel Hill

Mo Rush

May 25th, 2007, 12:49 PM

thanks a million!!!

dysan1

May 25th, 2007, 03:01 PM

a division of dad's firm is doing all the pitch related work

Mo Rush

May 25th, 2007, 06:04 PM

just another reminder, that if possible, please post updates in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Thread as well, in the stadium and sports arenas section so that it remains up to date as well.

Inertia

May 25th, 2007, 08:10 PM

You're welcome to repost my post in the thread mo

SA BOY

May 26th, 2007, 02:20 PM

will the less than mighty elephants move here for the currie cup?

kulani

May 26th, 2007, 04:24 PM

You're welcome to repost my post in the thread mo

i know most of us are guilty for not posting on the 2010 FIFA World Cup thread (including myself), but i think it would be ideal if we all made an effort to include all postings related to 2010 to that thread too. So far Mo Rush has shouldered this task almost single handedly. I urge all of us to give Mo a hand with this task.

DennisRodman

May 26th, 2007, 07:35 PM

hey dont forget me kulani

kulani

May 26th, 2007, 09:08 PM

hey dont forget me kulani
Dennis, funny you say that, i actually wanted to mention your name too. :). Yes , you have been helping out a lot on the 2010 WC threads and given that you are a relative outsider, your efforts too are worthy of praise. Keep it up.

Durbsboi

May 28th, 2007, 09:39 AM

Thank you guys for keeping it updated, bit guilty myself on not looking for info, also seeing that my cuz is incharge of the "Road to 2010" for the Mercury News paper, I should be contributing more.

DennisRodman

May 28th, 2007, 11:49 AM

mr talkative durbs with no pics....lol

AmerikaMosWanted

June 20th, 2007, 03:25 AM

Region 21 000 beds short for World Cup

By Patrick Cull Political Editor

NELSON Mandela Bay has a shortage of 21 193 beds for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, according to tourist projections by MATCH, the event services company mandated by Fifa to be responsible for accommodation.

This was revealed yesterday by Urban-Econ Tourism director Shannon Moffett to the “2010 Tourism Readiness” conference. She said NMB currently had 6 207 beds and 27 400 would be required.

Provincially, she said, there was a “large gap” in terms of accommodation in all categories, which was “threatening the province‘s ability to maximise tourism potential from the tournament”.

There was also an insufficient supply of four- and five-star accommodation “to attract teams to base themselves in the province”.

Moffett said the accommodation objectives of MATCH were to ensure there was “an appropriate supply of accommodation at fair prices and reasonable terms” and that the accommodation “promotes both the image of Fifa and South Africa as a host country”.

She said for this reason they had decided that all accommodation contracted to them would have to be graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.

MATCH, Moffett added, would contract with both hotel and SMME accommodation as well as national and provincial parks and surrounding satellite areas to host cities, providing they were able to offer no fewer than 200 rooms.

She said the difficulty with establish an “exact picture” of accommodation in the Eastern Cape was “suggestive of difficulties the tourist will have in getting good information about accommodation”.

It was essential that a comprehensive and regularly updated data base was established in line with the data base of the Eastern Cape Tourism Board and Tourism Grading Council.

With regard to “experiences and attractions”, Moffett noted that while there was a good supply of nature-based and adventure tourism products, “no information can be found on township tours”.

There was also a relatively low supply of entertainment and shopping experiences.

She said tourists were likely to experience difficulty in finding information about attractions offered in the province while there was “no iconic product” that had been developed “to act as an anchor in terms of attractions to the area”.

Moffett noted too that there was little packaging of products for tourists and while all the necessary products might exist in a specific area “without the packaging of such products, the area is likely to lose its competitive advantage”.

Opportunities to overcome some of the challenges included:

Port Elizabeth and East London harbours accommodating cruise ships.

Accommodation at university campuses to address the shortage.

“Home stays” to boost accommodation on offer.

Current relationships and historical links that could attract teams to base themselves in the province.

The use of Nelson Mandela‘s birthplace as an icon to brand the province.

Festivals in the Eastern Cape over the World Cup month.

The use of foreign students from higher education institutions as translators – there are currently only 20 registered translators.

Mo Rush

June 25th, 2007, 03:55 AM

June 2007

http://www.mype.co.za/gallery/data/media/59/Soccer_World_Cup_Stadium_June_2007.jpg

larsul

June 25th, 2007, 09:04 AM

June 2007

http://www.mype.co.za/gallery/data/media/59/Soccer_World_Cup_Stadium_June_2007.jpg

Hello guys, i am from Guadalajara, Mexico. I am visiting this thread (cuz my wife and i are planning to go to your beatiful contry for the worldcup) to take a look at the construction of the stadiums.
It seems that everything is going well and you will have a nice stadium. By the way, which team (either rugby or football team) will be playing in this nice stadium?
Good luck with the preparations. :D :D

Durbsboi

June 25th, 2007, 09:12 AM

Hi & welcome to our forum larsul, I think the Eastern Province "Might Elepahnts" rugby team will occupy this stadium during rugby season & not sure which soccer team is from this area.

Martsbra

June 25th, 2007, 09:55 AM

EC 2010 stadium in cash crisis
25/06/2007 08:45 - (SA)

News24

Johannesburg - The Nelson Mandela Bay municipality has decided to downgrade the city's 2010 Soccer World Cup stadium because the Eastern Cape government has not paid the R212m it previously committed to the project, the Herald Online reported on Monday.

However, the government said it remained committed to the development and would release the funds if the municipality could explain why the budget had shot to more than R1.2bn.

Provincial government spokesperson Phapama Mfenyana said the municipality did not have the authority to make changes to the original design, as the stadium also belonged to provincial government.

"Our contribution is not in question, but Bhisho first wants the municipality to provide a detailed breakdown of what has caused the budget to overshoot to R1.2bn."

It was initially estimated that the Port Elizabeth stadium would cost R250m, but the figure increased to R711m in 2006, and finally to R1.2bn.

This left the municipality with a shortfall of R262m, with the national treasury saying it would not allocate more funds.

Municipal manager Graham Richards said 2010 executive director Errol Heynes had expressed concern at the lack of response by Bhisho to the municipality's request for a guarantee on the provincial government's contribution to the shortfall.

"The matter has become quite urgent and therefore instruction has been given to the technical team to reduce certain areas within the stadium to incur further savings until other sources of revenue are secured," said Richards.

He said the cutbacks would reduce the sustainability of the stadium, but that it would remain Fifa compliant.

The municipality has indicated that one of the elements of the stadium which could be done away with was the roof.

Richards has in the past said that some of the reasons for the increase in the construction budget were increases in the cost of equipment, the high level of construction activity, possible shortages of building materials, possible shortage of skilled labour and the nature of the project, which is considered high risk.

dysan1

June 25th, 2007, 12:09 PM

Mo Rush

June 25th, 2007, 02:25 PM

the "cash crisis" is as big a sensation as paris's release from jail

1. the cash is there, the provincial gvt. simply want the reason behind the need for the cash at this stage

kulani

June 25th, 2007, 06:48 PM

the "cash crisis" is as big a sensation as paris's release from jail

1. the cash is there, the provincial gvt. simply want the reason behind the need for the cash at this stage

Tell me about it. I am sure the naysayers has something new to use and spread the message of gloom and doom. LOL

dysan1

June 25th, 2007, 08:36 PM

well why waste an extra R262m??

Mo Rush

June 25th, 2007, 09:29 PM

Waste? why not leave a roof off every world cup stadium?

larsul

June 25th, 2007, 09:45 PM

Hi & welcome to our forum larsul, I think the Eastern Province "Might Elepahnts" rugby team will occupy this stadium during rugby season & not sure which soccer team is from this area.

Thanks for the welcome durbsboi :D
the good thing about the design for football stadiums is that it can be used for rugby as well.
I have a couple of questions and hopefully you can help me with this.
During the worldcup what would be your recomendation for transportation between cities? either bus, train or plane?
also is there any chain like Ibis or something like where we can stay for an affordable room?
I hope you can help me with this question, i know is not the right forum or thread to ask however hopefully you can help me with it.
Best regards from Mexico

Durbsboi

June 26th, 2007, 09:19 AM

I would reccomend traveling by plane between cities, simply of the fact that traveling by bus will take much longer, but if you dont mind the long journey then be my guest. Our rail network is up to standard with those oversea's. Maybe by 2010 it will be improved, but I doubt it could reach the standards of that in the Europe & America.

Regarding accomodation, there is plenty hotels in every city, if you looking for affordable accom, Im sure they would be plenty people turning there flats/ houses into B & B's for the world cup period, so will just have to be on the look out for them.

I hope that helps.

dysan1

June 26th, 2007, 12:13 PM

Waste? why not leave a roof off every world cup stadium?

i'm saying, the R262m is not just the roof. Budgets cant just keep getting blow out the water with little to no return to be seen in the future. at some point someone has to say no more

larsul

June 27th, 2007, 07:02 AM

Durbsboi

June 27th, 2007, 08:45 AM

^^Sorry, In my post I said our rail network is up to standard with over sea's rail networks, it was a typo, Our rail networks are deff not up to std with those oversea's

Mo Rush

July 1st, 2007, 07:33 PM

http://www.noharchitects.co.za/modules/PagEd/pictures/per1.jpg
http://www.noharchitects.co.za/modules/PagEd/pictures/per2.jpg
http://www.noharchitects.co.za/modules/PagEd/pictures/per3.jpg

Inertia

July 1st, 2007, 07:38 PM

Awesome rendors, thx

Mo Rush

July 1st, 2007, 07:47 PM

Awesome rendors, thx

although they were added to the website may 2007, i think this is the design before the slight changes made earlier in the year, the final design is most likely the one on page 3 of thread

dysan1

July 2nd, 2007, 03:16 PM

that roof does look awesome...but also does look expensive and prob part of the trimmings

Mo Rush

July 2nd, 2007, 03:45 PM

that roof does look awesome...but also does look expensive and prob part of the trimmings
that roof was scaled down to the current design, its so funny because all cost issues were dealt with earlier in the year by parliament where each city reported on the costs.

Mo Rush

July 2nd, 2007, 03:54 PM

The R262m shortage was reported to parliament on 23 February 2007 and the provincial government then stepped in to cover this. The full explanation of the shortage is available and its just the prov gvt being too lazy to stay up to date.

"The possible shortfall ranges from a maximum of R262 million (rounded off) to R106 m (rounded off) which will require elimination of grand stand roofs. This will of course have an impact on sustainability."

"8. Possible reasons

It should be pointed out that there has not been "an increase" in tender prices. What has happened, is that the tendered prices, which reflect a genuine competitive testing of the markets, are higher than the calculated estimates prior to the issue of tenders.

Reasons for this could include the following:

* Timing. The majority of tenders were issued at the same time, immediately after the allocation of funding by National Treasury. If tenders could have been spread (e.g. if NMBM could have invited tenders in July 2006) costs could have been lower.

* Equipment. High rise cranes are in short supply internationally. Each site will need to have between 6 and 12 cranes.

* High level of construction activity. Economic growth nationally and in NMBM particularly (e.g. a number of major projects commencing in the Coega Development Zone) has resulted in contractors becoming more selective as to projects in which they wish to tender. Some major contractors have in fact not tendered for the stadium construction.

* Possible shortage in the supply of critical building material.

* Possible shortage in the supply of skilled labour in the construction industry.

* Wage demands in the unskilled sector.

* Nature of work. Experiences prove that stadium construction is a high risk project for contractors and designers.

As a result of the above factors, tenderers have costed in their perception of the risk particularly in their costing of preliminaries and mark ups on provisional sums (ranging from 400% to 765% more than pre-tender estimates)."

Mo Rush

July 6th, 2007, 12:12 AM

http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/6048/50360002ug0.jpg

Inertia

July 6th, 2007, 01:19 AM

Were is the stadium sposed to be in that pic? ^

Mo Rush

July 6th, 2007, 01:28 AM

green park area at the edge of the lake

SA BOY

July 6th, 2007, 05:20 AM

why are we putting new stadiums on green lungs? CT and PE are guilty of this. At least Jozi and Durbs had the forsite to demolish something first .
seems we want to live in a conrete world

Mo Rush

July 13th, 2007, 02:07 PM

any new images?!?!

Mo Rush

August 16th, 2007, 11:05 AM

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/PE.jpg

dysan1

August 16th, 2007, 11:27 AM

shoo... right next to factories. i never knew they were so close...

that sand also looks odd. but stadium coming on. Still sceptical that they say it will be complete in october next year

SA BOY

August 16th, 2007, 12:25 PM

even if its finnished next year whos gonna use it?

Mo Rush

August 16th, 2007, 01:02 PM

even if its finnished next year whos gonna use it?

rugby team..not sure who else.

dysan1

August 16th, 2007, 01:49 PM

do they get sport crowds in PE? cos their local rugby teams seem to be in permanent crisis

Mo Rush

August 16th, 2007, 04:49 PM

who knows...im all for building big stadia esp when gvt. hands cities most of the money.

Mo Rush

August 16th, 2007, 10:00 PM

http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/2010%20-5.jpg

Mo Rush

August 16th, 2007, 10:03 PM

PROGRAM & CURRENT STATUS

Bulk water, sewer, earthworks(95%) complete.

Piling - 60% complete.

Main contractor established, site office , pile caps in progress, pre cast yard being set up, 5 Cranes on site out of 12.

Construction drawings handed over on 7 May 07.

Inertia

August 17th, 2007, 12:06 AM

^^^ thats an older image than the one before, but thx anyway

hsark

August 17th, 2007, 04:50 PM

do they get sport crowds in PE? cos their local rugby teams seem to be in permanent crisis

they can use it as a concrete"my construction homewk is killing me" venue and other big gatherings ps: theres no freaking rugby in p.e theres talent but no super 14 team or big soccer team

Mo Rush

August 17th, 2007, 04:57 PM

^^^ thats an older image than the one before, but thx anyway

ok ok...ill add some from last weekend..but they arent aerial views.

Mo Rush

August 17th, 2007, 05:10 PM

^^^ thats an older image than the one before, but thx anyway
Last weekend

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/Panorama2.12_8_07.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/Panorama12_8_07.jpg

Mo Rush

September 2nd, 2007, 10:02 PM

ITEMS OF INTEREST REGARDING THE STADIUM

Construction Substantial completion date December 2008
Project completion Date February 2009
Volume of material to be excavated 138 000m3
Volume of imported fill material 110 000m3
Total length of piles to be installed 21 km
Volume of concrete to be placed 31 000m3
Steel reinforcement 3 000t
Total length of pre cast seating to be installed 12,7km
Height of the structure 34m
Roof span 46m
Area membrane 20 000m2
Area metal cladding 20 000m2
Number of permanent seats 40 000
WC seating capacity 46 500

dysan1

September 2nd, 2007, 10:10 PM

^^ will change the thread title then

Mo Rush

September 8th, 2007, 01:00 PM

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1008/1085888802_3f30f6a524_b.jpg
http://bp1.blogger.com/_f0KxI0XsZ9Q/RuJttXUg9yI/AAAAAAAAABc/H1eupfNwNB0/s1600/DSCN3498(2).JPG
Last weekend

Mo Rush

September 29th, 2007, 12:05 AM

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/PE1.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/PE6.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/PE2.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/PE5.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/PE4.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/PE3.jpg

dysan1

October 3rd, 2007, 12:47 PM

Rather worry costs rises for a stadium in a city that has no major sports team.

Stadium must be ready even if costs going up, says Heyns
02 Oct 2007 - Inet Bridge -

Intro
Nelson Mandela Bay‘s World Cup stadium may be slightly behind schedule due to rising costs

By Bianca Capazorio

Nelson Mandela Bay's World Cup stadium may be slightly behind schedule due to rising costs, but the city has to be ready as the date of the tournament is set in stone.

This was the word from Nelson Mandela Bay 2010 director Errol Heyns, speaking at a breakfast focusing on the World Cup in the Eastern Cape.

Heyns said the stadium, which would cost between R1,3-billion and R1,5-billion, "might be a little bit behind schedule", mostly because of rising costs.

Heyns said costs were bound to rise in a market where there were fewer competitors vying for the work.

He gave as an example the Korsten modal interchange tender which forms part of the municipality's 2010 transport plans, which was initially advertised at a cost of R30-million.

"In the first round, no one in South Africa tendered, but when we advertised it a second time, the tenders were coming in at around R60-million," he said.

Despite the delays, however, Heyns said Nelson Mandela Bay had no choice but to be ready as the tournament was a "fixed date in the future that cannot be shifted".

In addition to major infrastructure developments, the city was also creating a state-of-the-art geographical information system, modelled along similar lines to the Google Earth programme that would allow users to find registered accommodation anywhere in the city.

In addition to being able to pinpoint accommodation information, users of the web-based system would also be able to determine distances between various points in the city, as well as locate a host of other services such as pharmacies.

This would be ready within "three or four months", Heyns said.

The city was also structuring its volunteer programme. A national decision taken about the programme was that sign-up would be entirely internet-based.

"This is a world-class event and we want to raise our people up to a worldclass standard, so we are going to have to think of getting internet access to those in the rural areas at libraries and in community centres, so they can be a part of this," Heyns said.

A lot of effort and money needed to be put in now, in order to reap the benefits after 2010. "Almost 65 per cent of World Cup tourists are males between the ages of 18 and 45.

They come here to party and we have to provide them with a party. But we must also ensure that they want to come back again with their families," he said.

Also speaking at the breakfast were Eastern Cape Tourism Board head Naledi Burwana-Bisiwe, who highlighted the importance of making the Eastern Cape visible to international tourists through branding.

She said the board was working on general branding, but would be able to focus branding once the preliminary team draws had taken place on November 25.

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism head Fezekile Tshiwula said attention needed to be given to the fact that of the 32 teams taking part in the World Cup, eight were from South America and most spoke Spanish, or in the case of Brazil, Portuguese.

"A lot of these people have no idea where South Africa is, let alone Nelson Mandela Bay, and we need to bear in mind that marketing in English is not going to bring them here.

"We need to develop marketing material in those languages," he said.

Mo Rush

October 3rd, 2007, 06:20 PM

they can make one up..they have had that shoddy stadium used for rugby for too long now..a 40,000 seat stadium should become the home for various sports codes..EP rugby, and uhm......u know...other teams

Durbsboi

October 4th, 2007, 08:43 AM

Pule, some help here, which team resides in P.E

Pule

October 5th, 2007, 08:11 AM

They haven't got any team but the EC government are in a process of buying the status of one of the teams in Mvela league but they haven't mentioned as to which one.

I don't think there should be a fuss about which team is gonna use the stadium as teams in KZN and CT never fills up the stadiums. Even Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando piartes don;t fill up the stadiums anymore. The only team that fills the stadium is Bloemfontein Celtic. I think the municipalities and teams PRs in all these areas need to c opy the startegy that the Bloemnfontein Municipality and the Bloem Celtic are suing to lure people to the stadiums.

dysan1

October 5th, 2007, 11:14 AM

^^ yes but at least Durban and CT have fully functioning rugby teams and concerts to fill the stadium (thats if both rugby teams move across - if they dont then soccer it will be for CT and alot of athletics and soccer for durban)

Pule

October 7th, 2007, 04:46 AM

I get your point Mike but as I said they working on getting a soccer team with Mvela. In terma of concerts, I know that Metrofm has for about the past 3 years hosted plenty of it concerts in PE and again as with all other cities accross the country I don't think the tourism council in there is doing enough to attract those kind of events.

dysan1

October 8th, 2007, 11:02 AM

I'm still most worried about this stadium, along with Nelspruit, in terms of future use

Martsbra

October 8th, 2007, 03:22 PM

i hope it doesnt fall into disrepair...

Durbsboi

October 9th, 2007, 08:52 AM

Well the local council must ensure they get suitable tenants in there, or perhaps sign on 1 of the tournaments, like have certain competitions at the stadium, maybe involving the lower leagues?

dysan1

October 9th, 2007, 09:59 AM

^^ 46 500 seats for lower league teams???

Mo Rush

October 9th, 2007, 03:46 PM

^^ 46 500 seats for lower league teams???

reduced to 40,000 after the world cup. I say reduce it to 30,000 with the option of increasing it back to 40,000

dysan1

October 9th, 2007, 04:32 PM

^^ how large is the current boet erasmus?

Mo Rush

October 9th, 2007, 05:29 PM

^^ how large is the current boet erasmus?

35000k maybe...nothing wrong with a 40k beauty of a stadium to replace boet erasmus...old boet looks like something out of auckland.

http://www.worldstadiums.com/stadium_pictures/africa/south_africa/port_elizabeth_eprfu.jpg

Mo Rush

October 9th, 2007, 05:49 PM

"Stadia have a limited lifespan," says Jordaan. "The time has come for us to re-assess the Boet Erasmus Stadium. The truth is that it cannot cope with the security and emergency needs of an international event of the size we are hosting, and its telecommunications capacity is also not up to scratch."

But building a stadium takes millions of rands - certainly way beyond the financial capability of the city itself. Money will come from other sources; too, so initial funding should not be a problem. What is important, though, is that the stadium is able to provide enough ongoing revenue to cope with the enormous costs of maintaining a structure of this sort.

Mo Rush

October 10th, 2007, 06:50 PM

Fifa gives Bay 2010 stadium the nod

Max Matavire Metro Editor

A HIGH-POWERED Fifa delegation braved the cold and rainy weather yesterday to conduct their second inspection this year of the 2010 Soccer World Cup stadium in Port Elizabeth – and gave the project the thumbs up.

The technical delegation was accompanied by the Local Organising Committee, led by chief competitions officer for the LOC, Dennis Mumble, who is originally from Port Elizabeth.

The visit by the Fifa delegation was to ensure that agreement between the LOC and Fifa regarding requirements for the stadium were being adhered to.

Briefing the media after the inspection, Mumble said the inspection had been mostly technical.

“We are so far quite pleased with what we have seen. We are encouraged by the progress made. Everything is on course,” he said.

However, as always happened with such “massive” projects, there were areas of minor concern.

In this case, the use of certain spaces within the stadium were questioned, but the matter was being resolved, he said.

Fifa 2010 head of media operations, Alain Leiblang, said they had found “good” solutions to some of the problems which had been encountered.

“We had a very interesting meeting here today. We are pleased it is going fine.”

Leiblang said several meetings would be held with the local media, culminating in a South Africa media day, which would be held in Port Elizabeth.

The group started their inspection tour in Johannesburg on Monday at Soccer City. Yesterday, before coming to Port Elizabeth, they toured Greenpoint Stadium in Cape Town.

Today, the delegation will visit Durban where they will have several meetings in preparation for the holding of a preliminary draw for the World Cup. The draw will be held next month.

matavirem@johncom.co.za

Mo Rush

October 14th, 2007, 12:43 PM

Construction site update: 13 October 2007
Tour by safety and security manager

Raker beams are going up on the far side. Pile caps are complete through most of the stadium. On the far side the third level will very soon be under construction. Pillars will start goung up on the near side within the next week and our tour guide, the safety and security man on site, was explaining how everything works on site. The actual beams for seating should also start going in within the next 2 weeks or so. The 8th tower crane's base is in place and it will probably be up by next weekend.

He also showed us some visuals of the completed structure like a cut away view similar to the one of green point and mbombela. He also told us that they are currently 30 days behind schedule but that this was busy being caught up through working at night and on weekends. At furthest they were 45 days behind schedule but a lot has been caught up already.
Luke Bentyley

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/DSCN0503131007.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/DSCN0504131007.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/DSCN0505131007.jpg
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/DSCN0500131007.jpg

SA BOY

October 15th, 2007, 12:30 PM

more cranes than PE has ever seen

Mo Rush

November 2nd, 2007, 03:03 AM

Construction update: November 2007

PE has caught a wake up call and are seemingly back on schedule. 8 cranes are now on site and significant work should be visible at the end of the year. From then on its a mad rush to meet the deadline at the end of next year. Yikes!

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/DSCN0643small.jpg?t=1193965113
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/DSCN0639small.jpg?t=1193965114
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/DSCN0634small.jpg?t=1193965115
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p210/rfataar/DSCN0637smal.jpg

Pule

November 9th, 2007, 07:38 AM

Full steam ahead for Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium

By: Guy Copans
Published: 9 Nov 07 - 0:00
The construction of the Nelson Mandela Bay multipurpose stadium in Port Elizabeth for the 2010 FIFA World Cup is on schedule, and will be ready by 2009, in time for the Confederations Cup, says construction group Grinaker-LTA civil engineering operations director: civil engineering business unit Peter Meidlinger.

As the stadium will be used in the Confederations Cup in June 2009, there will be 'float' time between the official completion date, and the first time it will be used, says Meidlinger.

Grinaker-LTA has been building the stadium as a 50:50 joint venture with Dutch company Interbeton, since March 15, 2007, when the tender was awarded. The stadium will be located in the north end area of Port Elizabeth, and will consist of up to 43 000 permanent seats, and an additional 5 000 temporary seats for the World Cup. It was also awarded the contract for the construction of Soccer City in Johannesburg. Grinaker-LTA's portion of the project is split between its building company and its civil engineering company, which is overseeing the construction of the stadium.

Meidlinger is based in Johannesburg, but visits the construction site on a weekly basis, for one or two days. He says that Grinaker-LTA was awarded the contract for the construction of the stadium owing to its proven record and capability, with experience in other large-scale construction projects. It built the old FNB stadium (Soccer City), and Orlando stadium.

Meidlinger says that the Nelson Mandela Bay multipurpose stadium will have the distinction of being the fastest-constructed sports stadium ever. He adds that Grinaker-LTA's vision is not only to have the stadium completed on time, but also to meet the client's requirement for quality, and for a team safety record. To date, there have been no major hiccups, with no disabling injuries, and no strike action. The stadium will replace the Eastern Province Rugby Football Union stadium as the main sporting venue for Port Elizabeth.

Once completed, the stadium will not be the largest or the grandest, but will be equal to smaller stadiums, such as those in Durban and Cape Town, says Meidlinger. It will have state-of the-art technology and modern stadium design, with a 'sunflower' roof that wraps around the stadium, without covering the full extent of the stands. After the World Cup, he says, the stadium will be used for events besides soccer, such as conferences and training, so that the venue can still be financially viable.

Grinaker-LTA wanted to get involved in the construction of the stadium, in order to be involved in a high-exposure project, says Meidlinger. He cites the appointment of the roof contractor and selected subcontractors as milestones thus far on the project, as all the contractors are on schedule, which has greatly lowered risks.

Grinaker-LTA's civil engineering team, with 40 staff members on site, is involved with the construction of the stadium and liaises with the design team and the Eastern Cape government on the project, in the finalisation of design and scope. Meidlinger says that Grinaker-LTA and Interbeton have worked well together on the project.

There are 700 people who are currently employed on the project, says Meidlinger. He says that at the peak of the project, in March or April 2008, that number should reach 2 000. Grinaker-LTA's contract value for the project is R1,15-billion, and R139-million has been spent to date. He admits that there are currently budget constraints, as the boom in the construction industry was not taken into consideration in the drawing up of the budget, and says that maintaining the budget is a great challenge.

Meidlinger says that all the construction sites for the World Cup have to comply with a standard that FIFA has set. The local organising committee has a technical committee that visits every six weeks and applies the guidelines set by FIFA. FIFA itself, he adds, visits the site every four months, and has so far indicated its satisfaction with the construction progress.

Subcontractors on the project include Rand Civils, with a contract worth R25,5-million for demolition, earthworks and paving; Lightning Protection Services with a R425 000 contract for lightning protection; Steeledale, with a R25,1-million contract for supply and fixing reinforcement; Service Electrical, with a R174 000 contract for the fixing of cast-in electrical conduits; and EP Scaffolding, with a R7,7-million contract for the supply and erection of false/formwork.

The shortage of resources and skills in the country still represents a substantial challenge for Grinaker-LTA on this project, as do temperamental weather conditions, with strong winds proving the greatest obstacle.

Grinaker-LTA is currently tendering on the Madupi power station in Lephalale.
Edited by: Laura Tyrer

lukus

November 9th, 2007, 07:58 PM

hi guys. I'm new on this forum from PE and will be posting regular updates here. it's gonna get exciting as construction moves ahead.

Mo Rush

November 9th, 2007, 08:46 PM

hi guys. I'm new on this forum from PE and will be posting regular updates here. it's gonna get exciting as construction moves ahead.

welcome.finally!

dysan1

November 11th, 2007, 09:00 PM

finally someone in PE!!!!!

those pictures dont make me think it will be ready by end 2008. it is miles behind where durban and ct are, grnted it is a smaller stadium, but still its barely out the ground

Mo Rush

November 12th, 2007, 12:44 AM

lukus

November 12th, 2007, 12:27 PM

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0809.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0803.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0797.jpg

Pule

November 12th, 2007, 12:32 PM

Thanx Mo.

Durbsboi

November 12th, 2007, 12:39 PM

Great pics Lukus :okay:

lukus

November 12th, 2007, 12:49 PM

Thanks DB. Still getting used to the forum but I will try and post updates once a fortnight.

Mo Rush

November 12th, 2007, 03:14 PM

awesome!! those are some of your best shots luke.

Pule

November 12th, 2007, 04:34 PM

Luke, please don't forget photos of the City Centre and the updates of other construction projects going on.

lukus

November 12th, 2007, 05:57 PM

Thanks Mo. Decided to get a bit more inventive. Here are some city centre shots that I took a while ago of the upgrade to Govan Mbeki Avenue in PE CBD. It used to be a tarred road with very narrow pavements. Now they've got rid of the road so you can't drive through there anymore. it makes the walking area wide and comfortable.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0655-1.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0653-1.jpg

Pule

November 13th, 2007, 07:04 AM

Hi Luku, thanks for the pics but please post pics and other PE related developments in the following thread

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=270434&page=10

lukus

November 15th, 2007, 02:32 PM

Workers give Bay stadium a red card

Hendrick Mphande HERALD REPORTER

WORK at Port Elizabeth‘s 2010 soccer stadium will grind to a halt indefinitely from Monday as workers embark on a solidarity strike that officials say will shatter any hope of the stadium meeting its already tight deadline.

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) confirmed yesterday that workers at all Fifa 2010 World Cup stadium construction sites would down tools from Monday in solidarity with striking workers at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

The latest setback is likely to increase international speculation that South Africa will be unable to complete work on all its stadiums before the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

But more immediately for Port Elizabeth, a 2009 Confederations Cup match scheduled to be held in the city is now in serious jeopardy, with both the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality and the company in charge of construction saying the strike means the stadium is unlikely to be completed in time to host the Confederations Cup game.

NUM national spokesman Lesiba Seshoka said yesterday it was “all systems go” and that the only way to call off the strike was by management meeting workers‘ grievances.

Group Five, which is in a standoff with Durban workers, is on record as saying no further negotiations would be held with the union.

Demands include a R1 500 bonus for each worker and that sub-contractors meet minimum wage requirements for the civil engineering sector.

The union also wants workers to be allowed to elect a full-time safety compliance officer as it is unhappy with 15 safety compliance officers provided by the consortium involved in the construction of the stadium.

“We are going on national strike in all major 2010 projects. We have given seven days notice to employers, which expires on Monday,” said Seshoka.

Grinaker LTA, which is responsible for construction of the Nelson Mandela Bay stadium, confirmed yesterday it had received notification of the strike.

Project manager Mark Bicknell said: “The strike will definitely have a negative impact on the project. We have lots of unionised members at the site.”

Municipal spokesman Lourens Schoeman said the strike would have a negative impact, not only in Nelson Mandela Bay, but nationally.

“It will be very sad for a strike to affect a project of national importance.”

Local organising committee chief executive officer Danny Jordaan said the strike would not affect the preliminary World Cup draw.

He said efforts were under way to resolve the dispute at the Durban stadium as soon as possible.

“The preliminary draw is of paramount importance to us. We have a unique opportunity to demonstrate our ability to organise a world-class event to an expectant local, continental and international community.

“This is our first opportunity to host a preliminary draw that will really capture the attention of the world . . . as South Africans we need to hold together and be one team.”

Mo Rush

November 20th, 2007, 02:58 AM

Construction update

Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium major works complete December 2008, ready for Confederations Cup February 2009

CLAIMS THAT NELSON MANDELA BAY MULTIPURPOSE STADIUM WILL NOT BE COMPLETED IN TIME FOR CONFEDERATIONS CUP REFUTED

Reacting to claims in International Media today that the Multipurpose soccer stadium in Nelson Mandela Bay may not be completed in time for the Confederations Cup in 2009 and that LOC chief communications and marketing officer, Tim Modise, told journalists in London yesterday that it may have to be shelved as a venue, Municipal Manager, Advocate Graham Richards, has issued the following statement:

It must be stressed that the stadium will be complete, with the pitch laid, well in advance of the Confederations Cup.

It has been confirmed with the office of the LOC today that its communications and marketing spokesman Tim Modise did not make any such statement to the international media in London yesterday, as claimed.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and LOC Technical Teams are continuing to work closely on construction schedules and report regularly to the LOC.

It is clear that, despite certain claims by the contractor for extra days under the contract (which have not been conceded) even if such days are given, the stadium will be complete, with the pitch laid, well in advance of the Confederations Cup.

No decision has been taken to withdraw the Confederations Cup from Nelson Mandela Bay.

Also reacting to the claims, LOC Technical Representative in charge of the Nelson Mandela Bay stadium construction, Eugene van Viiren, said although schedules were tight, the LOC was confident that all time frames would be met.

He said the construction programme was moving along well and a possible withdrawal of the Confederations Cup from Nelson Mandela Bay had never been considered.
--
Issued on behalf of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality by:

Lourens Schoeman
Media Management Officer
Tel: 041/502-0074
Cell: 082 780 2014
Fax: 086 504 9385
E-mail: lschoeman@mandelametro.gov.za

lukus

November 20th, 2007, 11:22 AM

‘No grounds for panic over future of PE‘s World Cup stadium‘Sipho Masondo HERALD REPORTER

THERE are absolutely no grounds for panic as Port Elizabeth‘s 2010 Soccer World Cup stadium will be completed, at the very latest, in January 2009, five months before the Confederations Cup tournament.

These assuring words came yesterday from Nelson Mandela Bay 2010 director Errol Heyns.

This follows a series of media reports last week that due to an impending sympathy strike scheduled for yesterday at the stadium, the city‘s chances of hosting the Confederations Cup had been thrown out the window.

Heyns said: “Our planning made provision for a 45 000-seater stadium within a period of 22 months, ending in December 2008, or January 2009. There is absolutely no reason for panic. As far as critical items are concerned, the stadium is on track. It‘s early days for panicking.”

The pitch is scheduled to be ready in October next year and thereafter the roof will follow.

“The seats are most critical as Fifa needs to sell them through ticketing.”

While there were no guarantees of any sort in the construction industry, weather permitting, and with minimal disruptive industrial action, the stadium should be completed well in time, Heyns said.

He conceded, however, that other non-critical issues such as paving, painting, some lighting and tiling could stretch the completion time to April.

“The Confederations Cup will only kick off on June 15 and end on July 15. Before that, Fifa requires about six weeks to set up its equipment,” he said.

The construction of the stadium is divided into five levels. Level one and two comprise seating arrangements, level three is an office complex, level four is suites and level five is conferencing and retail facilities.

“We are finishing off level two, but other areas are already at level three and four.”

He said the 2010 project was big and would have challenges.

“There is no way that a project of this magnitude would be without challenges. The question is how you tackle those challenges when they show up.”

Heyns also dispelled reports that the stadium would be downgraded because of a R212-million shortfall which the municipality could not raise.

The shortfall, he said, had indeed occurred because major contractors had tendered for about 30 per cent more than had been budgeted for. However, the Eastern Cape provincial government had covered the shortfall.

“The stadiums will be built to Fifa specifications. There will be no downgrading,” he said.

Depending on how much subcontractors who would work with lighting, lifts, electricity, paving and lighting quoted, more shortfalls could surface, but the municipality would make plans to raise those shortfalls.

“We will look at different financing models,” Heyns said, but he would not specify what they were.

Ideally, the municipality wanted to create a whole new economic node in North End, with the stadium assuming a catalyst role for that, he said.

The node, which would be known as the “leisure entertainment precinct”, would see the North End Lake getting a cycling track and walkway, coffee shops, jazz cafes and nightclubs.

The municipality would spend about R1-billion on transport infrastructure around the stadium and elsewhere in the Bay.

At present about 1 370 people are employed on site. More are expected to benefit when sub-contractors start installing lighting, lifts, electricity, paving and tiling.

However, he also warned against people raising their expectations too high. “People should work hard and be competent in order to benefit. Be organised, competent and willing.”

The municipality was also looking at different ways to manage the stadium.

“These days stadiums have shifted from having a soccer pitch only. They have to be sustainable and profitable. So we are looking at office space, soccer, rugby and other revenue-generating facilities.”

lukus

November 25th, 2007, 06:53 AM

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0962.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0950.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0951.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0948.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN0947.jpg

Juanl

November 25th, 2007, 01:54 PM

UPDATE
While NMB officials have been refuting media claims that the stadium will not be ready for use as a match venue durng the 2009 Confederations Cup, city manager Graham Richards has warned sex workers and other service provides that they must take care and abide by the law during the 2010 World Cup.

Addressing 150 business people in PE, Richards said action would be taken to protect the corporate trademarks of the event.

"The correct way to benefit legally from the tournament is to study the international and national regulations governing the merchandising and marketing of the World Cup."

Richards gavew examples of piracy: somebody advertising their business in "spurious" terms, such as "Debbie's Escorts - 2010 World Cup". He said a truck bearing advertising for beverages other than the officially sancioned Coca-Cola and Budweiser could be towed away if it was parked on the main route to an official venue.

lukus

November 26th, 2007, 12:08 PM

As can be seen in the pictures, three quarters of the raker beams for the first tier, will lie on sand banks. The fourth quarter, which is the side closest to the lake, will be a basement level. The basement will probably be used as underground parking for team buses and match officials.

The public will enter at the first level, above the sand banks and basement level at lakeside. Slabs of cement will be cast to allow padestrians to walk over the basement level and into the first level. These slabs will stretch out to form a pier over the lake.

The first tier will span two levels, the sand banks/basement and the 1st level (Public entry). There will then be a level for corporate boxes-2nd. The level above that will be a smaller second tier-3rd.

The roof is the focal point of the stadium. It wraps around the stadium, starting at the second level and wrapping over the 2nd and 3rd levels. It will span 46m from where it starts at the second level to where it ends out over the seating tiers.

The stadium is generally rectangular in shape, but the stands themselves are concave to allow for better lines of vision into the centre of the park.

If you look on the pics of the construction site, the roof will come over in line with the lights mounted to the tower cranes.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/nelsonmandelabaystadium.jpg

lukus

November 28th, 2007, 08:20 AM

Host of a world cup quarter final and third place playoff, the NMB stadium will be a unique, world class football and rugby stadium that will leave a legacy of sporting prowess in the city of Port Elizabeth.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/nelsonmandelabaystadium.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/nightNMBstadium.jpg

Mo Rush

November 28th, 2007, 06:32 PM

great updates.

lukus

November 28th, 2007, 07:29 PM

messed up with that pic post

Mo Rush

November 28th, 2007, 07:44 PM

IMO less of the roof should have been around the facade and more of it covering spectators. While it would change the effect of the "Shell like" facade there should have been some balance.

lukus

November 28th, 2007, 07:51 PM

Got it right. I just like the effect of the whole thing. When I looked at architectural pics in the site office I was in awe of what an amazing venue this will be when complete. Without the shell like effect of the roof, this stadium would look rather bland in my opinion.

Mo Rush

November 28th, 2007, 08:03 PM

lukus

December 1st, 2007, 08:02 AM

I'd say these pics are about 2 weeks old

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/nmbconstructionpic4.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/nmbconstructionpic3.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/nmbconstructionpic2.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/nmbconstructionpic1.jpg

Mo Rush

December 3rd, 2007, 02:11 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2344/2076779189_08b4a49497_b.jpg

Mo Rush

December 3rd, 2007, 02:26 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2207/2077859882_ee59371fcc_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2181/2077066639_97bc340000_b.jpg

Mo Rush

December 3rd, 2007, 02:41 PM

http://www.mype.co.za/gallery/data/media/59/port_elizabeth_stadium_socc.jpg

Mo Rush

December 4th, 2007, 09:14 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2122/2085799971_510a0fa185_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2162/2085811299_ec386b6136_b.jpg

Fresh update.

annman

December 4th, 2007, 09:20 PM

Mo Rush

December 4th, 2007, 09:30 PM

I sincerely do not like the location of the PE stadium, looks like a massive industrial area. Would be like putting Green Point Stadium in Epping, or Soccer City in Wadeville. Well, at least the sea is somewhat in view.

Well it was a recreational space with soccer fields etc. but im still not sure why it was chosen. It is adjacent to a lake though, which will make for some great images and it does have an ocean backdrop. But I would have chosen a different location.

lukus

December 5th, 2007, 04:49 PM

It was Prince Alfred's Park and was home to Park Rugby Club. The club vacated the area for the stadium to be built. I think we can count ourselves lucky that it is at this site. When deciding on a site for the stadium it was a choice between a site in Motherwell township on the outskirts, or Prince Alfred's which is near the city centre.

Mo Rush

December 5th, 2007, 05:36 PM

I would have liked a harbour location or something on the edge of the CBD.

lukus

December 13th, 2007, 09:28 AM

This is awesome progress

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1228.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1213.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1212.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1203.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1192.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1191.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1190.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1225.jpg

DennisRodman97

December 13th, 2007, 06:10 PM

great progress!

dysan1

December 16th, 2007, 12:47 PM

its progressing? thought it was a million years off schedule?

lukus

December 16th, 2007, 12:52 PM

It was lagging far behind schedule, but its caught up a lot

dysan1

December 16th, 2007, 12:54 PM

It was lagging far behind schedule, but its caught up a lot

it still looks like a major push is needed for any hope of a 2009 con fed completion

Mo Rush

December 17th, 2007, 12:23 PM

it still looks like a major push is needed for any hope of a 2009 con fed completion

The stadium is on schedule to meet the December 2008 deadline for major works, with the field ready by March 2009. Its the December 2009 that was concern and the stadium has made up time and are now progressing normally with construction.

dysan1

December 18th, 2007, 09:38 AM

The stadium is on schedule to meet the December 2009 deadline for major works, with the field ready by March 2009. Its the December 2009 that was concern and the stadium has made up time and are now progressing normally with construction.

but isnt the con fed in june 2009? how on earth can it host when not complete?

lukus

December 18th, 2007, 12:29 PM

I think Mo means December 2008

lukus

December 18th, 2007, 12:37 PM

The workers are taking a three weak break now for the festive season

dysan1

December 18th, 2007, 03:09 PM

^^ a 3 week break? are you kidding?? i'd imagine all the stadia would work almost straight thru the builders break to stick to deadlines? i know the people working on the new airport in durban arent taking a break, the stadia should be the same

lukus

December 18th, 2007, 04:24 PM

But I think this 3 week break would be factored into the building time. It's a planned break, unlike a strike, so I don't think it will have too negative an effect on the deadline. Having said that though I don't know if we can afford breaks if we want this stadium to be finished before the confed cup

Mo Rush

December 18th, 2007, 06:53 PM

lukus

January 6th, 2008, 06:34 PM

workers return tomorrow

dysan1

January 6th, 2008, 07:26 PM

well thats because they started so late.

no big project should have taken any break. the shops dont close so why should they

Mo Rush

January 6th, 2008, 09:42 PM

no big project should have taken any break. the shops dont close so why should they

if they were on track to meet deadlines and included a break then there is no reason why they should continue to work through the festive season. why pay workers close to double to work during the festive season when the project is on schedule.

Pule

January 7th, 2008, 06:06 AM

no big project should have taken any break. the shops dont close so why should they

I concur with you.

hsark

January 7th, 2008, 01:58 PM

I concur with you.

then again we don't want another strike rather lose a week than a month

lukus

January 9th, 2008, 12:45 PM

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/pestadiumaerial.jpg

Mo Rush

January 9th, 2008, 05:24 PM

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/pestadiumaerial.jpg

anything more recent? 12 months to go!

lukus

January 9th, 2008, 05:59 PM

Yeh I know. I'm gonna go down this weekend to get some pictures. Things are gonna have to speed up considerably for it to be finished in time.

lukus

January 12th, 2008, 04:55 PM

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1239.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1240.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1241.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1243.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1246.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1251.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1256.jpg

Mo Rush

January 12th, 2008, 05:42 PM

thanks. Any idea who will build the roof/where it is being built?

lukus

January 12th, 2008, 06:45 PM

I assume the roof will be built on site but I'm not sure who's been awarded the tender.

Mo Rush

January 12th, 2008, 06:52 PM

I assume the roof will be built on site but I'm not sure who's been awarded the tender.

No, they have already awarded the contract but I'm not sure to who. They would just assemble it on site.

lukus

January 12th, 2008, 11:10 PM

Yeh I'm sure it would just be built as the stadium rises.

Juanl

January 13th, 2008, 10:40 AM

Word on site is that as of the beginning of this year, they've been working through the night.

lukus

January 13th, 2008, 11:39 AM

Wouldn't surprise me seeing how tight the deadline is

Pule

January 14th, 2008, 08:12 AM

Thanks Lukus, as Mo said "South Africa is winning the race against time to 2010"

lukus

January 14th, 2008, 10:14 AM

my pleasure pule. I think in terms of stadium construction we are definitely winning but there are many more challanges like accomodation, public transport, etc. that still need to be tackled

lukus

January 14th, 2008, 10:18 AM

Thanks Lukus, as Mo said "South Africa is winning the race against time to 2010"

my pleasure pule. I think in terms of stadium construction we are definitely winning the race but there are many more challenges like public transport, accomodation, etc. that still need to be tackled.

lukus

January 14th, 2008, 10:18 AM

sorry double post

Pule

January 14th, 2008, 10:20 AM

My main concern is transport as I think they will deal with accomodation. By the way I read on MDBA that Statue of Freedom's construction start in 2009, could you please share some light with us on this one. I will be glad if its gets completed before the 2010 SWC.

Mo Rush

January 19th, 2008, 08:54 PM

Stadium on track

All reports by Ramatsiyi Moholoa
16 January 2008

Happy: LOC chief Danny Jordaan
LOC pays special attention to brand new stadium

The construction of the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth requires special attention from the 2010 World Cup Local Organising Committee, which it will receive, chief executive Danny Jordaan said.

He was outlining last year’s achievements and this year’s challenges in preparing for the tournament.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is the only new stadium that will be used for the 2009 Confederations Cup and the World Cup.

But Jordaan was happy with the general progress of construction, stating: “The upgrading and construction of stadiums is on track and being closely monitored.”

Jordaan, who is in Ghana for the Africa Cup of Nations finals, said last year was a momentous one for the organising committee.

“We are in the operational phase of the overall comprehensive strategic plan and in an intensive work phase.

“The structures and work flow are becoming streamlined, our interactions are becoming increasingly refined and the stadiums and other infrastructure are progressing with impressive speed,” he said.

“The groundwork that was laid in 2007 and will continue in 2008 will be of utmost importance for a solid, reliable event.”

Jordaan said that among the highlights of last year for the LOC was the awarding of the International Broadcast Centre to Johannesburg.

He said they were also happy that the match fixtures for the Confederations Cup and the World Cup had been completed and made public.

On the issue of official events, Jordaan said the 2010 World Cup preliminary draw at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban last November was a roaring success and that the Fifa top brass were highly impressed.

Fifa and the LOC also hosted a medical workshop in Kimberley on October 5 and 6 that was attended by leading medical personnel.

Jordaan said: “The workshop helped us gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Fifa health and medical requirements by the LOC medical department, demonstrated government support and the infrastructure and expertise at the LOC’s disposal to execute these functions, exposed the professionals earmarked for participation as OC venue medical officers and Medical Advisory Board members to the organisation and its partners,” said Jordaan.

Still on the issue of official events, Jordaan was happy that they used the “90 Minutes for Mandela” soccer game successfully to showcase their readiness for the World Cup.

It attracted big names such as Samuel Eto’o of Cameroon, Hossam Hassan of Egypt, Kalusha Bwalya of Zambia, George Weah of Liberia, Daniel Amokachi of Nigeria and Ruud Gullit of Holland.

“We managed the 90 Minutes for Mandela event in Cape Town in July 2007 and a trip to the historic Robben Island where Fifa inducted the Makana Football Association as an honorary member,” said Jordaan.

“Fifa honoured the Makana FA for their work during apartheid to fight oppression and the 90 Minutes for Mandela event was a wonderful testament to the power of football.

“We also organised a very successful business opportunities conference in partnership with the South African government in Ekurhuleni and the vast metropolitan municipality adjoining Johannesburg, on June 12.”

The conference was opened by Fifa president Sepp Blatter.

Jordaan said they were happy that the official mascot, official poster, official slogan and official emblem for the World Cup and Confederations Cup had been unveiled.

The LOC plans to accelerate the appointment of venue managers at all the World Cup stadiums .

Jordaan said it will increase the daily interaction with the host cities and the implementation of operational requirements in each of the nine host cities.

The LOC will also focus on building on Legacy Projects, which include working with Fifa on the 20 centres for the 2010 World Cup.

Some of the major events that the LOC will target for promotion of the World Cup and where it will send locals to gain experience on issues like volunteering, are:

# The Afcon in Ghana;

# the Euro Cup finals in Austria and Switzerland;

# the May 15 celebrations in Rustenburg and the North West province; and

# the Beijing Olympic Games.

Regarding projects and challenges for this year, Jordaan said they were working hard to ensure that the venues must be completed by December 31.

He added that access roads to stadiums and a general program on the transport roll-out plan are among the issues being attended to by the relevant people. “Water, electricity, safety and security needs consistent monitoring,” he concluded.

lukus

January 22nd, 2008, 07:14 PM

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/stadiumjan17.jpg

SA BOY

January 23rd, 2008, 09:52 AM

I know I asked this before but will Boet erasmus stadium be demolished once this is completed and the home of the EP Donkeys?

lukus

January 23rd, 2008, 11:20 AM

I know I asked this before but will Boet erasmus stadium be demolished once this is completed and the home of the EP Donkeys?

Yes. This stadium is a replacement for the Boet which will be demolished once this one is complete.

Mo Rush

February 5th, 2008, 03:02 PM

Stadium site unaffected by power cuts

Shaanaaz de Jager HERALD REPORTER

ESKOM‘S crippling power shortages have left most of the country, including Nelson Mandela Bay, in the dark, but it appears that construction of the 2010 Soccer World Cup stadium in North End has received special treatment as it has not been affected by any power cuts.

Nelson Mandela Bay 2010 Soccer World Cup project director Errol Heynes said there had been no delays in the construction of the R1,2-billion stadium.

The five-tier???, 40 000-seat stadium (with an extra 8 000 seats for the World Cup) was expected to be completed in time for the Confederations Cup in June 2009.

“A risk assessment is being done, and the contractors and technical teams are in communication with Eskom. Should a back-up generator be needed during the 2009 Confederations Cup or 2010 World Cup, it will be supplied. The construction can‘t wait,” he said.

Municipal manager Graham Richards said the power to the construction site had not been cut during the power outages.

“We are satisfied with the progress of the stadium and anticipate that it will be completed in time for the Federations Cup,” he said.

Grinaker-LTA director Leon Petrie warned at the weekend that the load-shedding would cause a huge problem at the Port Elizabeth stadium.

However, Grinaker-LTA project director Mark Bicknell said the site had not experienced any power outages, and it was hoped that it would remain “unaffected by future power cuts”.

Bicknell also said that, in the event of a power cut, the company did have “standby generator equipment to run certain critical activities like the concrete batching plant which is on site”.

Eskom Eastern Cape spokesman Ntombekhaya Mafumbatha said: “It is a Fifa requirement that all stadiums be self-sufficient and have back-up generators. Because the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality stadium falls within the municipal supply area, the municipality will have to provide the back-up supply,” Mafumbatha said.

lukus

February 6th, 2008, 01:49 PM

I think its more like 5 level

lukus

February 6th, 2008, 01:50 PM

Went to the site past weekend but not too much change so decided not to post

SA BOY

February 6th, 2008, 02:07 PM

have you heard what is proposed for the Boet erasmus stadium site?

lukus

February 6th, 2008, 02:18 PM

No. All i know is that the stadium will be demolished

SA BOY

February 6th, 2008, 02:21 PM

prime real estate

lukus

February 14th, 2008, 07:19 PM

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/2010stadium5.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/2010stadium4.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/2010stadium3.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/2010stadium2.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/2010stadium1.jpg

DennisRodman97

February 14th, 2008, 07:55 PM

lukus u are the prince of south africa.......Morush is the king........Durby is the servant lmaooooooooooooo....jk durby u know u my boy

Mo Rush

February 14th, 2008, 09:52 PM

this is exciting..12 months go..10 more months for major works to be complete.

Mo Rush

February 14th, 2008, 10:05 PM

http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/stadiumbig/120201.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/stadiumbig/120202.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/stadiumbig/120203.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/stadiumbig/120204.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/stadiumbig/120205.jpg

lukus

February 15th, 2008, 05:56 AM

this is exciting..12 months go..10 more months for major works to be complete.

I can definitely now see this stadium being finished in time

lukus

February 15th, 2008, 12:52 PM

Mo Rush

February 15th, 2008, 01:00 PM

this looks good even without all the finishing touches...i think the main thing is to get the structure ready for the roof.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/2010stadium2.jpg

Pule

February 15th, 2008, 02:33 PM

This si what I call good progress. I agree Lukus, it will be finished in time.

lukus

February 15th, 2008, 04:30 PM

this looks good even without all the finishing touches...i think the main thing is to get the structure ready for the roof.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/2010stadium2.jpg

Yeh its gonna be pretty spectacular when they start lifting roofs into place on all the 2010 stadiums

SA BOY

February 16th, 2008, 07:57 AM

seems the most advanced of all the new builds

Mo Rush

February 17th, 2008, 01:11 PM

lukus

February 17th, 2008, 01:59 PM

That second tier is going quickly

Mo Rush

February 19th, 2008, 02:25 PM

bla bla bla.

PE deadline fear

Monday February 18, 2008 08:24 - (SA)

LOUIS MAZIBUKO AND NTUTHUKO MAPHUMULO

IT could be Danny Jordaan’s biggest miss.

The chief executive of the 2010 World Cup local organising committee (LOC) has always wanted his home town, Port Elizabeth, to be among the host cities for the World Cup and Confederation Cup games next year.

But Port Elizabeth is now in serious danger of losing its status as a host city for the Confederations Cup.

So serious is the threat that the LOC has appointed a task team to report on Port Elizabeth’s readiness by Friday. If the report is negative the city will miss out.

A special task team appointed to investigate the state of readiness of the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in the Eastern Cape will give a detailed report on Friday.

The LOC will then take a decision on whether or not to go with the initial five stadiums earmarked for the Confederations Cup in June next year or only four, excluding the Eastern Cape facility.

The five stadiums among the chosen few to host the Confederations Cup are Ellis Park, Loftus, Royal Bafokeng, Free State and Nelson Mandela Bay. The condition is that these five venues should be completed at the end of this year.

LOC chairman Irvin Khoza says a decision will be taken on whether the Eastern Cape will miss out on the golden chance to host one of the most prestigious soccer tournaments in the world.

Khoza says they will not look for another stadium if the Port Elizabeth stadium fails to make the cut.

“There might be pressure on that stadium,” Khoza says. “If they’re not ready, we’ll go with the four.

“We are obviously hoping for a favourable response from the task team. I don’t think we will have time to look for another stadium.”

Khoza says it i s not only about building the stadium in time but also other facilities such as access roads and the general programme of transport roll-out, hospitality and accommodation.

Eight teams will participate in the tournament. Seven participants have already been decided. Hosts South Africa, 2006 World Cup champions Italy, Brazil, Iraq, United States of America and MTN African Nations Cup 2008 champions Egypt have been confirmed.

Europe will produce their representative at the end of the Euro 2008 to be co-hosted by Switzerland and Austria in June.

The municipality’s spokesperson Erroll Heyns says: “What delay are you talking about?”

lukus

February 19th, 2008, 04:08 PM

its just paranoia. As i said earlier this stadium will definitely be finished before its deadline

Lydon

February 19th, 2008, 07:06 PM

and there I thought construction seemed to be going pretty fast over there...:confused:

Mo Rush

February 20th, 2008, 08:01 AM

the structure will be done in december..the fitting out and overlay of the venue, as well as the pitch will be ready by march

lukus

February 23rd, 2008, 11:02 AM

Got on site today. Got some pics and also got some background facts about the project so far. The stadium is almost 50% complete. It is the flagship stadium in that it, percentage wise, is the stadium closest to completion. The stadium is now slightly ahead of schedule. The roof will start going on in May and for that an 800 ton capacity crane is being brought in. For this crane, "trane tracks" will have to be made around the stadium for this massive crane to move.

Here are the pics:

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1494.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1496.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1500.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1508.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1512.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1513.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1519.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1524.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1527.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1532.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1539.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1547.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1550.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1573.jpg
http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/DSCN1589.jpg

Lydon

February 23rd, 2008, 02:59 PM

It's coming along nicely! Thanks for the photos!

DennisRodman97

February 23rd, 2008, 11:07 PM

Way to go luk........great pix.

SA BOY

February 24th, 2008, 09:21 AM

impresive pics Lukas well done

Pule

February 24th, 2008, 11:16 AM

Thanx for pics Lukus, its coming along nicely.

ToxicBunny

February 25th, 2008, 03:32 PM

Got some photos from a distance from someone I know who lives in PE.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2127/2290524801_5cbfb17dc5_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2413/2291383144_b8b61cfe08_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2065/2290527115_0a99b0d07c_b.jpg

Its definitely coming along nicely.

willayster

February 25th, 2008, 03:46 PM

PE ahoy. little east swell running in the background

Juanl

February 25th, 2008, 07:19 PM

Morning Live was there this morning. Not one to blow the SABC's trumpet, but I applaud their initiative for visiting a stadium a month on the show. Though it nust be said, their reporting is deplorable

dysan1

February 25th, 2008, 08:01 PM

how did u get into the stadium? impressive

Durbsboi

February 27th, 2008, 08:25 AM

Awesome pics Lukus!

lukus

March 1st, 2008, 06:18 AM

We just met this guy by luck in the site office the first time we tried to get on site. Ever since he's said that whenever we wanna go on site we must just give him a call and he'll organize it.

May I just say that this place is absolutely steaming ahead now and looks set to become the first major sports stadium to be completed within 24 months. Impressive!!!

Harkeb

March 2nd, 2008, 06:00 PM

great pics and impressive work.

lukus

March 4th, 2008, 07:44 PM

SABC are now reporting this place to be behind schedule!

Mo Rush

March 4th, 2008, 07:48 PM

i want to see the presentation they make to FIFA before the decision is made to use 4 or 5 venues. fifa only need a 15 day exclusion period before the confed cup, so even if its complete in may thats a whole year before 2010. including it will do more good than harm

Mo Rush

March 4th, 2008, 07:55 PM

Fifa Sets Deadline for Nelson Mandela Metro

BuaNews (Tshwane)

NEWS
4 March 2008
Posted to the web 4 March 2008

By Michael Appel
Johannesburg

FIFA and the 2010 Local Organising Committee (LOC) has set a deadline, 29 April, by which the Nelson Mandela Metro has to meet certain requirements in order to be one of the five stadiums to host the 2009 Confederations Cup.

LOC Chairman, Irvin Khoza on Tuesday said Port Elizabeth (PE) was for now still part of the five stadiums but there were still requirements that need to be met from the side of the city.

"A decision will be taken on whether or not PE will be one of the 2009 Confederation venues on 29 April 2008.

"But the ball is in their court and they have to give us the comfort that they will be ready for the Confederations Cup," Mr Khoza said.

FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke said: "To have the FIFA Confederation Cup in PE is a must, and we are doing everything we can to assist the city, but again they have to give us some assurances by 29 April."

Chief Executive Officer of the LOC Danny Jordaan said South Africa was building five new stadiums for the 2010 World Cup, with each stadium taking about 31 to 34 months to be completed.

"PE however, is the only exception that took the challenge to build a new stadium in 24 months and they will be given all the necessary support to ensure that the Confederations Cup takes place in the city," Mr Jordaan said.

Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor Nondumiso Maphazi highlighted that the city is committed to meeting the deadline set by FIFA, adding that outstanding issues at the stadium include the numbering of seats as well as accommodation around the city.

Last month, the mayor said the metro would "honour our commitments as a host city", including the "completion on deadline" of the multipurpose stadium for the Confederations Cup in 2009 and hosting of the world cup.

"We are absolutely confident that our hosting of both the Confederations Cup and the World Cup will leave a lasting, sustainable legacy."

With regard to accommodation, the mayor said a five-star hotel was under construction, other premium hotels were "dramatically increasing their bed capacity, and we are working closely with neighbouring municipalities to ensure that we fully meet the accommodation requirements."

In addition, she said, the local university, bed-and-breakfast establishments, caravan parks and private homes were also part of the accommodation product mix.

With regard to 2010 transportation, Ms Maphazi said the metro was introducing a bus rapid transit system which would provide commuters with an ultra-modern public transport system that would be "highly efficient and customer-orientated, fast, safe and comfortable to use and integrated in terms of fares and modes.

She said it was anticipated that the system would be operational by 2010

lukus

March 4th, 2008, 08:02 PM

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/stadiumaerial5-02-08.jpg

DennisRodman97

March 4th, 2008, 08:33 PM

sup with da old azz pix

Durbsboi

March 5th, 2008, 07:57 AM

So I heard this stadium might not make the deadline for the 09 confederations cup. Seems like the mayor was confused in the news last night, lol.

lukus

March 5th, 2008, 03:27 PM

sup with da old azz pix

its the last aerial on pe's website at the mo. just thought id post it

DennisRodman97

March 5th, 2008, 03:30 PM

aight cool!

Mo Rush

March 8th, 2008, 12:37 PM

http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/080227_04.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/080227_02.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/080227_03.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/080227_01.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/080227_05.jpg

lukus

March 12th, 2008, 04:56 PM

This thing's really starting to look like a stadium - first tier almost complete.

http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd197/lukekbentley/aerial8march.jpg

Pule

March 12th, 2008, 06:52 PM

Mo Rush

March 12th, 2008, 08:57 PM

pule the concourse around stadium connecting the stadium to the lake must still be built..like in cape town the stadium strucuture is first built before the concourse/parking/ indoor space around it is built.

Pule

March 12th, 2008, 09:24 PM

Pule the concourse around stadium connecting the stadium to the lake must still be built..like in cape town the stadium strucuture is first built before the concourse/parking/ indoor space around it is built.

Cool, thanks mo but I guess my question was that are all those planned.

Pule

March 12th, 2008, 09:24 PM

Mo Rush

March 12th, 2008, 09:32 PM

Cool, thanks mo but I guess my question was that are all those planned.

yes.

http://www.gmp-architekten.de/typo3temp/pics/fbe193aeb1.jpg

Durbsboi

March 13th, 2008, 08:18 AM

Still ALOT to do here. PE guys better move up a gear.

lukus

March 13th, 2008, 06:36 PM

Still ALOT to do here. PE guys better move up a gear.

We're in the construction phase now so things should mave pretty quickly from now to the end.

lukus

March 13th, 2008, 06:45 PM

Beutiful photos Lukus and I agree that now it starting to look like a stadium. How far is this stadium from the city center. I understand that the stadium is being built in an industrial area but I just wanna know if there will be any retail around the stadium itself.

What are the plans for parking as the area around around that stadium looks small, it will be good if they can only allow officials around the stadium and use the park-and-ride for the rest. I also hope that the stadium is a walking distnce from the city centre. Are the amenities around that like?

Sorry for so many questions but I'm curious bro.

Thanks about the photos Pule. The stadium is close to the city centre. I'd say its within a km of Govan Mbeki ave. the stadium is being built in a semi-industrial semi-suburban area. Kensington and North End suburbs are next to it as well as the factories beside the lake. These areas are quite run down so its hoped that this development and 2010 will help the areas improve. Shops and stalls I'm sure will be found around the stadium especially during the world cup.

The area around is quite small so parking is problematic. An idea for the world cup is that kings beach parking is used and people are brought to the stadium in a bus shuttle service from there. If not that a lane of the surrounding road may be used for parking.

Mo Rush

March 13th, 2008, 09:43 PM

Thanks about the photos Pule. The stadium is close to the city centre. I'd say its within a km of Govan Mbeki ave. the stadium is being built in a semi-industrial semi-suburban area. Kensington and North End suburbs are next to it as well as the factories beside the lake. These areas are quite run down so its hoped that this development and 2010 will help the areas improve. Shops and stalls I'm sure will be found around the stadium especially during the world cup.

The area around is quite small so parking is problematic. An idea for the world cup is that kings beach parking is used and people are brought to the stadium in a bus shuttle service from there. If not that a lane of the surrounding road may be used for parking.

well PE will be no different to other cities, only public transport and accredited vehicles allowed into the stadium precinct on match days, so no private cars or driving to the stadium.

Pule

March 14th, 2008, 07:32 AM

Thanks for the clear explanation Lukus. I hope th developers in conjuction with the municipality will turn the place around.

Just imagine how nice it will be to have coffee shops and resturants on ther other side of the lake. The view, Stadium and the lake, would be magnificent.

Juanl

March 14th, 2008, 02:21 PM

Doubt there will ever be coffee shops. The stadium is adjacent to the Cadbury's factory. Look at the address on your nect TopDeck. Chances are it'll be within two hundred metres of the stadium!

Mo Rush

March 28th, 2008, 01:38 AM

I now have confirmation about the whole saga of stadia readiness which centres around FIFA being harsh on RSA while applying different rules to Germany 2006.

lukus

March 28th, 2008, 11:51 AM

Why is that the case Mo?

Mo Rush

March 28th, 2008, 12:01 PM

there are some conflicting reports. leipzig stadium according to the LOC was only completed a few weeks before the confed cup but FIFA is expecting our stadia to be ready by december 2008. initially the december 2008 "complete stadium" definition was for major works to be complete for ticket sales but now FIFA require the entire stadium to be complete, but the entire stadium would only be fully complete march 12. Apparently they were still busy with leipzig stadium the week before when brazil were training at the venue.

BUT as far as I know Leipzig stadium was complete a year before the confed cup so perhaps they are referring to a different stadium.

I just need to make sure. The LOC want the stadium to be included but FIFA aren't so keen.

lukus

March 28th, 2008, 08:50 PM

lukus

March 29th, 2008, 04:29 PM

http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/26030801.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/26030802.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/26030803.jpg
http://www.mandelametro.gov.za/Assets/2010/26030804.jpg

DennisRodman97

March 29th, 2008, 05:35 PM

I reckon fifa are being harsh on us because they believe that they took a major risk in awarding the world cup to this country. Although you'd think with work underway on all venues and related infrastructure they wouldn't be worrying as much anymore.

Might be some truth to that lukus...but fifa needs to put pressure like this on South africa cuz they want to make sure everything is right on track. Germany, England or france might get pass but countries like south africa and the next host brazil are gonna face alot of scrutining and doubts...and pressure from fifa so get use to it.

lukus

April 1st, 2008, 09:25 AM

Growing concerns 2010 stadium won‘t be ready

Tabelo Timse MUNICIPAL REPORTER

THERE are still fears that the municipality might not make the deadline for the R1,2-billion 2010 Soccer World Cup stadium to be ready for the Confederations Cup next year, despite Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka‘s confidence that it will meet the Fifa deadline.

Mlambo-Ngcuka visited the city yesterday as part of a government programme to monitor and evaluate progress made with preparations for the 2010 projects.

Although Mlambo- Ngcuka gave the stadium a stamp of approval at a press conference after the site visit, Nelson Mandela Bay officials apparently faced a grilling behind the scenes from the deputy president‘s office.

Among issues discussed was a treasury progress report given to the president on March 3 before the International Marketing Council (IMC) on March 18.

The report said the contractual completion date was May 2009, cost overruns were R321-million and the project was not on track for the Confederations Cup in June 2009. The target completion date was discussed as there were conflicting dates – December 13 this year, or May 6 next year.

The stadium also came under fire as it was reported at the IMC that Fifa had delayed the decision of hosting the Confederations Cup at this venue because of construction delays, including seating and external works.

“Municipal officials have given us an assurance that the stadium will meet the deadline and I have confidence they will,” said Mlambo-Ngcuka.

The treasury report showed a low level of spending on the municipality‘s public transport infrastructure and systems projects and this raised concerns about the capacity of the city to design, procure and construct transport infrastructure.

It was also noted that it was not clear from the state of infrastructure whether the stadium‘s water supply requirements would be met.

However, Coert du Toit, the stadium‘s principal agent, said there were 30 designers on site and seven people monitoring. The local organising committee was in talks with Fifa officials on details of the requirements.

Du Toit said Fifa would have to decide whether or not the stadium was ready for the Confederations Cup.

“Some Fifa requirements are broad and we are in negotiations with them in terms of specific details so we can fully comply,” he said.

Fifa and the 2010 local organising committee have set a deadline, April 29, when the municipality has to meet certain requirements in order to be one of the five stadiums to be used for the Confederations Cup.