Macpherson reveals R444.7m overrun from project delays

PUBLIC Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has disclosed that 57 infrastructure projects experienced delays with total overruns to the tune of R444,7 million over the last three years.

- MAYIBONGWE MAQHINA

Macpherson detailed the breakdown of the overruns, which included R110.8m in 2022/23, R64.3m in 2023/24 and R269.6m in 2024/25.

This emerged when he was responding to parliamentary questions asked by EFF MP Sharon Letlape, who asked about the actions the department has taken to hold the contractors and implementing agents accountable, among other things.

According to Macpherson, his department has instituted firm measures to hold nonperforming contractors accountable.

“The defaulting contractors have been terminated or are in the process of being restricted, and legal letters of demand have been issued.”

At least six contractors have had their contracts terminated for nonperformance.

Legal proceedings have also been initiated against multiple service providers, including five he mentioned.

“These cases are currently with legal services and the Office of the State Attorney for recovery of financial damages,” he said.

Macpherson said there was also blacklisting or recommendations for blacklisting of affected contractors.

“Tt is important to note that in some cases, delays were due to client departments failing to decant facilities or confirm budgets, and in certain cases, additional scope and unforeseeable conditions impacted delivery timelines”