OnSport Reporter
THE Highlanders Clubhouse perimeter wall is taking shape with a large section of the front portion having been completed.
More than 20 panels have been completed along Fife Street including the installation of two gates, one for pedestrians and another for vehicles.
The construction of the wall had been stalled due to Bulawayo City Council’s refusal to issue the relevant permits until Highlanders settled its outstanding debts.
Work resumed after the club had settled part of its debts with the local authority but the shortage of cement on the market also slowed down the making of the blocks, adding to another delay.
Astra Building Supplies director, Jabulani Nkomo said while they are not moving at a pace they would have loved to due to rains they are happy with the progress that has been made so far.
The 800m long wall is set to bring a new aesthetic appeal to the Highlanders Clubhouse which had become an eyesore with people creating paths inside the grounds following the collapse and destruction of the fence that had been erected earlier.
The contractors have also cleared some bushes next to the wall that had seen rubbish piling up and people using the nearby boarding stop as a urinary.
The wall is likely to be completed in time for the club’s 100 years anniversary next year with various events lined up to be held at the iconic venue.
Unlike the previous fence, the new perimeter wall is made from Hydraform blocks which are strong and durable and barring any natural disasters likely to last a lifetime.
Nkomo said they are grateful to club benefactor, Sir Wicknell Chivayo, who made the construction of the wall possible through his generous funding.
“The Clubhouse has always been an iconic venue, making Highlanders one of the few football teams that own such a facility, and it is apt that its look fits the bill.
“Sir Wicknell has made this possible enabling us to complete a dream that was conceptualised when the late Highlanders chief executive officer, Ndumiso Gumede was in office,” he said.
Highlanders chairman, Rtd Col. Kenneth Mhlophe said they are happy with the progress being made despite the earlier hiccups.
“We are glad things are moving, the wall is impressive and I am sure on its completion, it will be the envy of many.
“We are grateful to Sir Wicknell for assisting the club and I believe this is a legacy project that will change the face of the clubhouse,” he said.
The wall presents another crucial passive income stream for the club as Highlanders will be able to earn revenue from placing adverts for the companies on the panels.