President’s Pen
Dear Members,
Trust all well after the yearly builders break and that you are enjoying being back and finding your gears again.
With the Omricon variant of the Covid-19 virus seemingly not as serious as originally considered and with the fourth wave having come and gone, we might be back to the new normal. Nonetheless be vigilant and careful with your person to person interactions.
We have already commenced with our first event of the year in the form of a live Presidents Breakfast which was attended by twenty concerned members. Our lively discussion at the breakfast was amongst others, remuneration for our work and I quote architect Frank Gehry: “I refuse to work unless I get paid, so I don’t get a lot of work sometimes”. Our next breakfast is beginning February – please confirm your presence.
The PIA office has re-opened and already commenced with their daily routines – please contact the office with your queries. Our first Executive and Committee meetings are scheduled for last week of January.
The Building Plan Submission procedures have been severely hampered with the fourth wave end 2021 but also due to the Building Control Offices relocating to fresh new building premises. The new address is Middestad Building, Ground Floor, 252 Thabo Sekume Street, Pretoria CBD.
The following departments will be relocated to this building:
• City Planning and Development Division
• Building Environment and Enforcement Division
• Building Control Offices
• Management and Administrative Support
The original date for opening of these offices was scheduled for 15 January but there have been completion challenges and we await a new date which we anticipate for end January. We trust that the new premises will alleviate the problems of Isivuno House and that the new look will reflect an inviting and professional appearance.
Please also check out our website for the events planned for our year but also check for advice columns and other postings regarding our profession.
If any member is aware of possible company sponsorships that could benefit the PIA please refer to our website for the relevant information and also contact Mauneen in this regards.
We trust that the year of 2022 will be rewarding and beneficial to all our members – keep up your good work and remain relentless in carrying out your duties, mandates and vision.
I end with this great quote by celebrated architect David Chipperfield: “The difference between good and bad architecture is the time you spend on it”.
Best Regards,
Jeremie Malan
PIA President