Residents of Welverdiend have taken a bold step toward self-reliance, continuing their grassroots effort to repair their damaged roads — and now they’re thinking even bigger: turning the route into a toll road under their control.

Following years of frustration and government inaction, the community has begun restoring sections of 10th Avenue and Station Street, which had become nearly impassable due to potholes, erosion, and heavy truck traffic. These roads form part of a provincial route often used by trucks seeking to avoid weighbridge fines on the N12 by diverting through the N14 via Welverdiend.

Residents leading the way

Community members spearheaded the effort, with more locals joining in as word spread. Using their own time, tools, and materials, they’ve begun patching potholes and reinforcing road shoulders.

“Our plan now is that, once we have completed the repairs, we want to see whether we can have the road turned into a toll road,” said local councillor Tollie Lubbe.

Lubbe noted that the community is willing to take full responsibility for maintaining the road, but in return, they seek authority to manage and benefit from it.

Political support gathers

Former Welverdiend resident and current Carletonville councillor, Ben van den Berg, has taken the proposal further by discussing the issue with Jaco Mulder, a member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature. The community is now awaiting feedback on whether such a transition from provincial control to a community-run toll system is legally feasible.

From Frustration to Innovation

This citizen-led initiative highlights the growing trend of DIY infrastructure solutions in South African towns where service delivery has faltered. Residents argue that taking control is the only way to ensure long-term safety and usability for both locals and transport operators.

Whether the toll road idea gains traction remains to be seen, but what’s certain is that Welverdiend has set a powerful example of community action and local leadership.