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Lonehill Bridge overflow raises safety concerns among residents

The recent heavy rainfall has led to alarming overflow conditions at the Lonehill Bridge, raising safety concerns among residents and local officials.

Lonehill Bridge has become a focal point of concern for residents following heavy rainfall that has caused it to overflow. The bridge was recently rebuilt by the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) to stop the Lonehill Dam from emptying to protect marine life.

It took about 18 months to complete the renovations of the bridge, as Fourways Review previously reported. It was designed to improve connectivity in the region. However, it has now been scrutinised for its apparent inadequate handling of increased water flow.

Read more: ‘Witkoppen bridge is not safe during rainy weather’ – Sunninghill Ratepayers Association chairperson

Ward 94 councillor David Foley said the bridge was a temporary solution, however, it was poorly designed from the start. He said there should have been pipes to allow for water to flow underneath.

Foley said there are plans for a permanent bridge that will rectify the poor structure. He added that before the bridge’s reopening, safety measures were supposed to be implemented to prevent overflow issues.

He advised residents to exercise caution when using the bridge, especially near the children’s play park.

Lonehill Bridge overflowing Photo: Facebook.

Also read: Lonehill Bridge reopens after 18-month rebuilding process

“It’s crucial for residents to observe the water levels closely and to consider crossing at the bridge only when it’s safe to do so, to avoid slipping or getting wet,” Foley added.

Concerns also extend to the safety features of the structure itself. The current railings have been described as insufficient, raising further worries about the integrity of the bridge during severe weather conditions.

In response to the concerns, Kwazi Mcetywa, head of infrastructure development at JRA, said: “The Lonehill Park bridge structure is the spillway to the upstream dam and is designed to overflow during severe storms.

“The pedestrian bridge that existed before the damage in 2022 was situated above this structure and is yet to be reinstated. As part of a temporary measure to make the area safe, the spillway was rehabilitated in 2023 while detailed designs were being completed.

“The JRA has completed designs for permanent rehabilitation of this damage, and the reinstatement of the pedestrian bridge is part of the design. Implementation will commence once the budget is available. The JRA has advised residents, and the Lonehill Resident Association (LRA), of the risks associated with pedestrians using the spillway as a pedestrian crossing. The Lonehill Resident Association does not act on the City’s behalf.”

The dam was also recently impacted by sewage and weed pollution, which has raised health and environmental concerns. However, Foley confirmed that it was repaired after several attempts, and he is working with Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo to clear the weeds.

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Related article: Association seeks help with the continually flooding bridge

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