Cape Winelands Airport has announced today that it has entered into an agreement with WBHO as the contractor for the technical development and construction of the airport as part of the airport’s multibillion-rand expansion programme.
“With the contractor now formally on board, the project advances into a crucial new phase – detailed technical development and planning. These appointments will enable the team to begin developing the specific designs and engineering frameworks required to move the project toward construction readiness. This process will also provide clearer insights into overall timelines and costs,” explains Deon Cloete, managing director of Cape Winelands Airport, in a joint media release with WBHO today.
WBHO, the technical development partner for Cape Winelands Airport, is a heavyweight in South Africa’s construction sector and one of the country’s largest publicly listed firms, with deep expertise in infrastructure, civil engineering, roads and earthworks. Best known for delivering major infrastructure projects and technically demanding projects, WBHO has built everything from stadiums and dams to airports and highways, says Deidre Davids, spokesperson for Cape Winelands Airport, in the media release.
Most significant aviation investment
The Cape Winelands Airport expansion, estimated to cost approximately R8b, is one of South Africa’s most significant aviation infrastructure investments. It includes the construction of a new boutique terminal, extended and realigned runway infrastructure, upgraded airside systems, enhanced cargo and logistics operations and a modernised general aviation precinct. The airport is expected to sustain about 35 000 direct and indirect jobs and could sustain just over 100 000 direct and indirect jobs during its initial 20 years of operation.
“WBHO is honoured to have achieved this significant milestone with the Cape Winelands team. This partnership will enable the acceleration of the technical design processes and subsequent construction completion of the airport project. A greenfield project of this scale and complexity is one WBHO is excited to be part of. Successful completion will showcase the talent and competence of South Africa’s local development, investment, design and construction capacity in delivering significant economic infrastructure” explains Russell Adams, director at WBHO.
Enhanced connectivity
The enhanced connectivity offered by an additional airport will further strengthen the region’s competitiveness and expand tourism opportunities across the Western Cape and beyond. The airport’s location in the Cape Winelands provides a rare opportunity to design an airport experience that reflects the character and beauty of the Winelands. Cape Winelands Airport aims to establish a world-class aviation and logistics hub that supports economic growth, attracts new investment and enhances regional connectivity, according to the media release.
“With WBHO’s proven track record in delivering complex infrastructure projects, the project is positioned to achieve excellence in execution. The teams’ combined expertise strengthens the airport’s commitment to building an efficient, future-ready and environmentally responsible aviation facility,” Cloete adds.
Strategic development partner
This announcement follows the recent confirmation of Growthpoint Properties as a strategic development partner for Cape Winelands Airport, focusing on long-term property and asset management responsibilities across the 450 ha aviation precinct’s logistics, commercial and hospitality components. As the project enters its detailed technical development phase, the newly appointed contracting partner will work closely with the Cape Winelands Airport team.
This next stage will bring greater clarity on what must be done to achieve construction readiness and the delivery of a future-focused aviation precinct for the Western Cape. Further announcements, including key programme milestones will be made known in the coming weeks, according to the media release.
