Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to invite interested and suitable investors to lease a designated portion of Portion 988 of the Farm Elandsfontein 90 IR, commonly known as Gilloolys Farm, for a maximum period of 30 years. The intended use includes developing and operating recreational facilities, a botanical garden, and related business activities, with the aim of enhancing public recreation, environmental conservation, and tourism development within the Gauteng Province.

Scope

The scope encompasses:

• Leasing approximately 29.0680 hectares of Gilloolys Farm.
• Developing recreational, botanical, and business facilities on the leased land.
• Implementing phased development including access, infrastructure renewal, visitor facilities, and water-based recreation activities.
• Maintaining and refurbishing existing structures and facilities, including boundary fences, entrance gates, and buildings.
• Obtaining necessary permits, including Special Use Rights and compliance with relevant legislation.
• Managing ongoing maintenance, security, and operational activities during and after development.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Development of a botanical garden, visitor’s centre, and associated infrastructure.
• Refurbishment and maintenance of existing facilities to meet standards set by the City of Ekurhuleni.
• Implementation of phased development activities: access and safety, infrastructure renewal, visitor facilities, and water-based activities.
• Compliance with all relevant legislation, including National Building Regulations and environmental standards.
• Provision of security and insurance coverage, including Public Liability and Contractors All Risk insurance.
• Preparation and submission of detailed development, maintenance, and financial plans, including rental and turnover projections.
• Application for and obtaining of necessary land use and development approvals from municipal authorities.

Skills and Experience Requirements

The bidder must demonstrate:

• Proven experience in developing and managing recreational, botanical, or similar environmental projects.
• Financial capacity to fund development, refurbishment, and operational activities, supported by bank guarantees, funding letters, or investment commitments.
• Capability to undertake phased development and ongoing maintenance of large-scale parks or similar facilities.
• Knowledge of compliance requirements related to land use, environmental management, and safety standards.
• Experience in managing security, insurance, and legal obligations associated with public recreational spaces.
• Ability to develop sustainable business models that include revenue generation through entrance fees, events, and other activities.
• Capacity to coordinate with municipal authorities and obtain necessary permits and approvals.