Residents still unhappy with South Road closure

Some disgruntled residents of Grobler Park, Lindhaven, and surrounds have raised concerns about the closure of South Road which they argue is an entry point to schools and a huge inconvenience to them.

Among some of the complaints, the residents argue that the closure often creates heavy traffic during peak hours, especially on Progress Road and Albertina Sisulu Road in Princess.

Furthermore, they are concerned that the closure will make it difficult to pursue criminals in cases of break-ins and that ambulances or the police may be unable to respond to cases of emergency timeously.

The road has been closed for over three months and motorists are forced to take alternative routes to their destinations, and according to the residents, the alternative routes are disastrous with roads filled with trenches and potholes.

One unhappy resident told the Record that the situation is not good and wanted to know how long are motorists going to have to endure this obstacle.

According to Ward 71 Councillor Rene Benjamin, the road closure is due to the pipes being laid to make provision for the new complex that has been built.

“Unfortunately, that project is currently on hold, and therefore the road will remain closed until they are back on site and complete the installation,” said Benjamin.

Benjamin referred the Record to the Johannesburg Social Housing Company (JOSHCO) to find out if there are any updates as they are the entity responsible for the development.

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JOSHCO’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Nthabiseng Mphela said that South Road was closed due to electrical and sewer upgrade works that have since been suspended and were unfortunately not anticipated.

“We acknowledge the residents’ frustrations and would like to kindly request that motorists use alternative routes in the meantime as we apply efforts and resources to address this issue.

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“We are committed to building a harmonious relationship with the Roodepoort community,” said Mphela.

ALSO READ: Motorists raise concerns about South Road closure