R797 million N7 upgrade advances road safety, connectivity and local economic opportunities

Media release by Provincial Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers

The Western Cape Government’s Department of Infrastructure is making significant progress on the R797 million Van Schoorsdrift Road Safety Improvement Project along the N7 north of Cape Town, with completion scheduled for March 2027.

The project includes approximately 5km of new road, six bridge structures and the elimination of at-grade intersections to improve road safety and traffic flow along this important transport corridor. This project will bring this part of the N7 to freeway standards.

Construction milestones include:

• 95% of stormwater drainage works completed.
• 98% of kerb construction completed.
• Significant progress on bridge structures and the new road alignment.
• Installation of streetlighting infrastructure underway.

The project is also delivering measurable economic benefits:

• 394 work opportunities created, exceeding the target of 280.
• 83 102 person-days of employment generated.
• R131.8 million spent on targeted enterprises, supporting local economic participation.

Provincial Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers said:

“Infrastructure investment must deliver more than roads and bridges. It must improve safety, connect communities, create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

“This R797 million project is doing exactly that. With 394 work opportunities already created, more than 83 000 person-days of employment generated and R131.8 million spent on targeted enterprises, we are demonstrating how infrastructure delivery translates into real economic opportunities.

“Every milestone brings us closer to a safer, more efficient N7 that will serve residents, businesses and future generations.”

Subject to favourable construction conditions, the project remains on track for completion in March 2027.

Media enquiries
Stephen Heyns
Acting Head of Communication
Western Cape Department of Infrastructure
Email: stephen.heyns@westerncape.gov.za
Tel: 021 483 0597