JRA in the process of purchasing privately owned land in Noorddwyk to erect safe crossing bridge

The narrow footpath that connects Sagewood and Noordwyk suburbs in Midrand seems to be far from being made safer for learners and residents.

The unsafe footpath is used mostly by Noordwyk Primary School learners and community members to access the two suburbs.
This publication contacted Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) and asked them if they were aware of the bushy, narrow and unsafe footpath in Noordwyk at the dead-end of Sagewood Street.

JRA spokesperson Bertha Peters-Scheepers said they were aware of it and said they were in the process of purchasing a portion of land that was privately owned so they could construct a bridge that pedestrians could safely use.

“The JRA will purchase the land from the private owner through the Johannesburg Property Company and then construct a proper bridge once the purchasing process is finalised. The safety of learners is of paramount importance. All the concerning or unsafe aspects of the footpath and stream will be addressed upon the conclusion of the process to purchase the land from the private owner,” said Peters-Scheepers.

She added JRA couldn’t give an exact timeframe for when the construction would be started and concluded.
“Johannesburg Property Company has since been provided with all drawings and other requested information to approach the new land owner and purchase the land on behalf of JRA. The project is currently at the preliminary design review stage awaiting the purchase of land. Until that process is finalised and the servitude belongs to JRA, it is then that the project will begin.”

Related article: 

https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/319461/long-walk-to-education-for-local-learners/