The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has published a request for information (RFI) for the design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of the proposed Culemborg Intermodal Logistics Precinct or part thereof at the Port of Cape Town.

Responses to the RFI must be submitted by no later than 16:00 on November 13.

In terms of the State-owned utility’s Port Development Framework Plan (PDFP), the expansion of the Cape Town port requires the development of nearby land parcels to create additional back-of-port capacity.

In accordance with the PDFP, the Culemborg Precinct is earmarked for mixed-use functionality which includes a focus on logistics provision to support the port.

“We anticipate that the RFI responses will assist TNPA in gaining increased insight into user requirements for a mixed-use logistics precinct that will serve the port hinterland.

“The outcome will also further support research done by TNPA to identify opportunities and demand available in the market for the development of the Culemborg Precinct,” says Cape Town port manager Rajesh Dana.

The Port of Cape Town is a city port with limited land area, which calls for innovative ways to enhance operational efficiency and optimise land use.

To this end, Culemborg creates an opportunity to integrate port, road and rail connectivity for back-of-port facilities and related uses.

The site location has potential to enhance the port’s value proposition by enabling efficient bi-directional cargo movement between Culemborg and the port.

“As the gateway of international trade, the port plays an integral role in shaping South Africa’s economy, and with the Culemborg Precinct strategically located, it presents opportunities to grow the local economy by offering an intermodal logistics precinct linked to national and international maritime and freight routes,” TNPA states.

Documents related to the RFI can be accessed from the National Treasury’s e-tender publication portal www.etenders.gov.za and/or the Transnet website.

Queries for clarification can be emailed to culemborgintermodalrfi@transnet.net.