Holidaymakers spared from roadworks
According to contractors on site, said Mangcu, there is currently a stop-and-go implemented, however, they will increase resources if necessary to ensure the road is open for the peak holiday period.
Contractors are working tirelessly to ensure that Marine Drive is open for use from December 14 to January 9, 2024, when construction resumes again.
This was a sentiment shared by the CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), Phelisa Mangcu, ahead of what she anticipates as another bumper festive season.
Mangcu said the rehabilitation of Marine Drive which connects Port Shepstone with Southbroom is underway, saying that while this may cause some inconvenience for holidaymakers flocking to the South Coast this festive season, the long-term gain will be well worth it for the future of tourism and investment in the region.
According to contractors on site, said Mangcu, there is currently a stop-and-go implemented, however, they will increase resources if necessary to ensure the road is open for the peak holiday period.
She said the major construction work will be completed, making it safe for motorists to use, with only minor work to be done thereafter.
“We would like to ask all our residents and holidaymakers to bear with us as construction continues on Marine Drive. The rehabilitation started in September and is expected to last around 30 months, resulting in a massive upgrade to a vital network within the region. The plan is for the road to be open during our busiest time, but we do ask that all road users take note of the limited access outside of these times and use alternative routes where possible,” she said.
She added that the project was launched by the KZN Department of Transport MEC Sipho Hlomuka in June, saying that twenty five kilometres of Marine Drive (the P395) is undergoing a R580 million upgrade.
She added that this will improve accessibility to Port Shepstone which is the area’s administrative, educational, distribution, commercial and cultural centre.
Mangcu added: “We are anticipating another bumper festive season, following on from last year’s incredible visitor numbers. We are so fortunate that our beaches are all open and safe for bathing, with the South Coast also home to the highest number of Blue Flag Beaches in the province – a key indicator of international-standard safety and quality. We also boast two world-class dive sites, hinterland excursions, township tours, extreme adventures and more, making this a top summer destination for families,” she said.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Fever’s Facebook page
