Bulawayo City Council installs new elevators at Tower Block, plans further restorations

Nqobile Bhebhe, nqobile.bhebhe@chronicle.co.zw
THE Bulawayo City Council has spent US$778 260 installing new elevators at the Tower Block Municipal Building, with plans underway to rehabilitate other iconic city assets, including the City Hall Clock.

The six new elevators were commissioned last Friday.

The Revenue Hall serves as a critical hub for the city’s financial transactions, including rate payments and other municipal services. However, over the years, the ageing elevators have posed challenges for both employees and residents, particularly those with mobility issues.

City Mayor Councillor David Coltart acknowledged that the previous lifts had been in a “disgraceful condition for years,” causing significant hardship for both employees and residents, who often had to walk up as many as 12 floors.

“This project commenced on 28 February 2024 and was completed ahead of schedule by the Schindler subsidiary company, Shindwe.

“My heartfelt thanks go to Shindwe and our own engineering staff, who ensured this project was completed within budget and, as stated, ahead of schedule.

“The lifts have cost us US$778 260.49, which, in my view, is an excellent use of ratepayers’ money,” said Cllr Coltart.

He further noted that the council now intends to rehabilitate the City Hall lift, as well as restore other key city landmarks, including the City Hall Clock and the fountain located within the City Hall precinct.

“Our desire is to deliver a first-class service to all residents so that Bulawayo becomes the best-run city in Zimbabwe and the rest of Africa,” he said.

Most buildings in the city have decommissioned their lifts due to the high cost of maintenance. Those that remain functional are often poorly maintained and frequently out of service.

Reports of people getting stuck in elevators have become commonplace.

 

 

 

 

 

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