PE High Court gets R100m upgrade

THE Port Elizabeth High Court building in Bird Street is undergoing a facelift costing more than R100-milion, which will see the addition of a new wing.

Situated in the historic suburb of Central, the building will also undergo a revamp with new carpeting, electrical and security installation, air-conditioning and upgraded toilets.

The building has been in use since the 1990s. The Public Works Department is undertaking the R106-million revamp on behalf of the Justice and Constitutional Development Department.

Public Works spokesman Thamsanqa Mchunu said construction, which started last month, would continue for 24 months.

"There will be an addition of two new criminal courts, four civil courts and eight judges' chambers. The new building will comply with all the latest building regulations to make it wheelchair friendly and accessible to people with disabilities," Mchunu said.

The new wing will be along the Cuyler Street side. It will include holding cells and judges' parking in a basement, new court rooms and judges' chambers.

The exterior of the building will be repainted and the design will be in keeping with the existing buildings. – Lee-Anne Butler