Cornelius Street bridge strong as ever

Almost a year after completion the Cornelius Street bridge is standing strong.

The bridge was near collapse last year with visible cracks and a quickly eroding support system.

In February 2014 the bridge collapsed due to the heavy rainfall received during that month.

Heavy-duty speed bumps were also installed to drastically slow traffic during construction and have since been removed.

After much deliberating between Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), the construction company and Ward 126 Councillor Mike Tonkin, the very popular Cornelius Street bridge was declared safe for motorists in November last year.

A river clean-up was hosted by RiverWel members and residents in August to ensure that the area under the bridge is kept clean.

Councillor Tonkin said, “During the construction we made it clear that all debris, including rubbish and trees, were to be removed in order not to block up the gabions, which can cause flood to the bridge during the rainy season if left unattended.”

During a walk-through of the site with Councillor Tonkin a clear stench of sewage wafted through the air.

“I believe this is filtering through from the Constantia Basin area. It is the distinct smell of uncontrolled sewage.”

Also massive tree roots and trunks have still not been removed since being taken out of the river bed during construction.

According to Councillor Tonkin, the entire project cost around R4 million.

“They did a good job replacing the gabions and building new steps for the water to flow down.”

The railings were replaced with heavy-duty concrete barriers as well as new palisade fencing.

“They did a good job with the fence, however, it was not adequately installed. There are gaps in the fence which allows anyone to pass through. They need to be closed in order to protect the residents boarding the river banks,” added Tonkin.

Details: Ward 126 Councillor Mike Tonkin, 082 564 0160.