The complaints regarding near head-on collisions in the stop-and-go sections on Clarence Drive reached the attention of the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure. In response, an immediate investigation was initiated.
The investigation uncovered a concerning trend, with road users stopping in the closed sections for recreational activities such as walks, taking pictures, and going to the water’s edge. Subsequently, they would rejoin traffic without regard for oncoming traffic, resulting in numerous near-head-on collisions.
Also read: Clarence Drive reopens for one-way traffic today, says WC Government
The Department of Infrastructure, emphasising that the closed sections are not designated parking areas but closed for safety reasons, disclosed that structural damage had occurred, often hidden beneath the surface. To address this unlawful behaviour, additional flagmen have been deployed along the closed sections.
Expressing concern about the reckless trend, Provincial Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers warned of potential measures if the behaviour persists.
Options include deploying escort vehicles, incurring significant costs and adding travel time, or resorting to a full closure of Clarence Drive, impacting traffic flow and the local economy.
Minister Simmers urged road users to take the risk seriously, emphasising the priority of safety. He announced an increased traffic and law enforcement presence along the route to address dangerous behaviour.
Clarence Drive, a crucial economic link between Gordon’s Bay and coastal towns, was reopened on 11 December 2023, with six stop-and-go sections. The route had suffered substantial damage from landslips and rockslides during the Heritage Day long weekend floods. Minister Simmers, originally excited about the road’s reopening, expressed disappointment at the current situation jeopardising road safety.
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Picture: Western Cape Government