THE Gauteng provincial government has allocated R10-million for the refurbishment of the Bob van Reenen Stadium in Mogale City.

This is the same facility that Kaizer Chiefs had earlier earmarked for use as their future home. The project was later put on hold.

Gauteng premier Nomvula Mokonyane and sports MEC Lebogang Maile went on a site inspection of the facility yesterday.

Maile said they were happy the construction work was under way.

"The project is mainly about the restoration and refurbishment of Bob van Reenen Stadium and the adjacent J Jonker rugby and cricket grounds."

The Lefika Emerging Equity group and Mogale City municipality plan to develop a sports high-performance village on the site in the long term.

"Phase one entails the renovation of a clubhouse, soccer spectator pavilion, the rugby and cricket spectator pavilions, vegetation control, fencing and enveloping of the main pitches," Maile said.

"We have allocated R10- million for the project, which effectively means that the department can only carry out basic renovations of the areas mentioned. There is a request for funding for phase two, which would comprise electrification work, reinstallation of the bulk sewer system and storm water drainage."

He said the time frame for completion of the current phase is four months.

"Thereafter the department will hand over the facility to Mogale City municipality for operation and maintenance."

The municipality has leased the land for 90 years.