"Metrolink" A new era for building control
On the 28 November 2007 the new "Metrolink" building, situated on the western edge of the Braamfontein Metro Centre (in front of the building), will open for business. It will provide customers and staff of the Building Control function with a state-of-the-art facility heralding a new user friendly plans approval service.
Helpdesk
The modern, visually appealing surroundings of the Metrolink are evidence of a bold customer-friendly approach. The emphasis is definitely on making the approval of building plans as smooth and quick as possible
The Helpdesk is a key feature of this new approach. Experienced staff will advise applicants on the technical and administrative details that are necessary for speedy building plan approvals.
They will assist by screening building plan applications prior to submission so that customers understand the criteria for "complete submissions", that is, building plan applications that have all the necessary documentation and evidence that the requisite town planning approvals as well as that comments from other Council Departments and Municipal Operating Entities, for example, Johannesburg Roads Agency have been obtained.
Fast track service
A dedicated "fast track" plans assessment process, managed by a team of Plans Examiners located in the Metrolink building, will be put in place. "Complete" applications will be directed to the fast track unit and customers can expect approvals within twenty-four hours. More complex applications that require specialist expertise will be directed to a Plans Examination unit on the 6th floor of the Metro Centre building.
The Deputy Director for Building Control, Mr Preggie Naidoo will oversee the implementation of the fast-track plans approval system. The day to day running of the building plan approval function will be the responsibility of the Assistant Director Mr Gideon Strauss and the Manager for Building Plan
Administration Mr Sanjay Khadua. They will oversee the administrative functions, particularly with respect to the registration and circulation of building plan applications.
Dedicated telephone enquiry service
A dedicated telephone enquiry service will also be provided to assist customers to track the progress of their building plan applications. The telephone numbers to call are 011 407 6058 and 011 407 6217. This is in addition to the web-enabled plan tracking service that can be accessed on the city’s website.
Fire protection consultancy
The City's Emergency Management Services desk in the Metrolink will provide a consultancy for advice and approvals with respect to fire protection plans. This service will operate from 08h00 to 10h00 daily.
Cashier and ATM
Customers can pay for building plan fees at the cashier in the Metrolink between 08h00 to 15h30 daily. Credit card facilities are also available and a nearby ATM provides cash withdrawal facilities.
Please note that the functions performed and services provided by the Development Management Directorate are featured on the City of Johannesburg website.
