Yesterday, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde and Provincial Infrastructure Minister Tertuis Simmers toured the construction site for the McGregor Bridge access road. The road is scheduled to officially reopen to the public by the end of today after crews complete the final layer on the bridge’s approach.
Severe rain on 25 September compromised the key structure, severing the primary route to the neighbouring town of Robertson.
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Minister Simmers expressed enthusiasm about the project’s pace, stating, ‘It is truly inspiring to note the gallant efforts of every individual and organisation who contributed to the success of this restoration project. The reopening of this access road will be a significant relief to the economic activity of this town and region with the resumption of the movement of goods and services. The agricultural sector has been severely affected by the damage to this infrastructure. We needed to rebuild this approach at a rapid pace and under safe conditions.’
While the region is still grappling with the aftermath of severe flooding, road repair crews from the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure continue to work tirelessly to restore other damaged routes. They urge residents and commuters to exercise patience, as work must adhere to strict safety protocols.
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Premier Alan Winde said, ‘Our teams on the ground have been working round the clock to repair this bridge as well as all public infrastructure damaged in the flooding. Our priority has been to reconnect communities and restore economic activity, especially as we head into the holiday season. We have shown that by working together with urgency, we can overcome the immense challenges. I would like to thank all the role players who have worked hard to repair this road infrastructure, which is an important lifeline for communities in this region.’
Minister Simmers cautioned the public about safety measures, advising, ‘The whole of government and society approach has been key in this project, and we continue to exercise this in all the flood-affected areas. While we continue to restore damaged roads, I ask that our road users adhere to all road signs, as this is for safety reasons.’
Authorities are urging the public not to use the road until official reopening and the removal of road closure signs. Even if the road appears complete, using it prematurely could result in damage to materials that have not been fully set, potentially necessitating additional closures and repairs.
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Picture: @alanwinde / X
