Roadworks near Avontuur wine estate, Stellenbosch | Western Cape Government

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Roadworks near Avontuur wine estate, Stellenbosch

6 October 2016

A plan is in place to make up for lost time on the Department of Transport and Public Works project to replace damaged pipe culverts on the R44 near Avontuur wine estate in Stellenbosch.

This R10 million project, which also involves the temporary widening of the road to accommodate traffic during construction, started in October 2015 and is scheduled for completion in December this year. Events outside the Department’s control have resulted in the works falling behind schedule. The contractor has undertaken to take the steps needed to complete the project on time.

Approximately 25 000 vehicles use the R44 every day. A 0,5 km temporary deviation has been built to allow two lanes of traffic to flow in each direction. No full road closures will take place.

The second diversion of traffic is planned for 7 October 2016. Winery Road may be used as an alternative route to avoid congestion. For safety reasons, the speed limit through this deviation on the R44 has been reduced to 40 km/h. Stellenbosch Traffic Services will be on hand to help ensure that the change-over is carried out as safely as possible. Motorists are asked to adhere to applicable speed limits at all times.

The contract has a target of 3 600 person-days of work for local labour from the Stellenbosch municipal area. A total of R700 000 of the contract value is expected to be spent on targeted Western Cape contractor businesses.

The Department thanks motorists and cyclists for their patience and urges them to exercise caution along the R44. We are aware that delays are frustrating, but some delays during construction are inevitable. Motorists and cyclists will soon be able to enjoy a safer and more pleasant travelling experience on this road.

Follow the Department on Twitter @WCGovTPW under the hashtag #roadworksWC.  

Media Enquiries: 

Byron la Hoe
Communication Officer
Department of Transport and Public Works
Tel: 021 483 9813
Cell: 079 281 8570
Email: byron.lahoe@westerncape.gov.za

You can follow the Department of Transport and Public Works on Twitter: @WCGovTPW