SOME businesses on Stapleton Road in Pinetown have expressed unease about its planned closure from May 20 to June 30.

The eThekwini Municipality had issued a notification about the temporary closure of the road to allow for the construction of new culverts and bridge repairs.

According to the notification, during that period the road will be reduced to a single lane with a 24-hour stop and go traffic system. There will be a restriction for (5t) articulated vehicles.

The school principal of Care Bears Wonderland, which is located along the road, Nila Ryan, said her premises and a neighbouring business, a petrol station, are apprehensive about the planned closure and have been putting their heads together to find proactive means to mitigate the situation.

“I am praying very hard that the closure will not be detrimental to the well-being of my business,” said Ryan.

In light of the recent roadworks, which Ryan said seemingly came to a standstill, she said time will tell whether the stipulated timelines for the closure will be adhered to.

Durban Metro Police Spokesperson Victor Zungu said their law enforcement officers attend to the road and are handling resultant issues “100%”  in an “excellent way”, with delays experienced at peak hours usually around 06:30 going for 07:00, with the traffic clearing during the day and the congestion resuming in the afternoon.

Previous construction on the road resulted in traffic delays which frustrated road users.

Also read: WATCH: Stapleton Road construction causes heavy traffic delays

The area’s councillor, Melanie Brauteseth, said it is expected that the road closure will affect travel times for motorists in the area.

“If your route includes roads within or near Pinetown, please consider the following important points. For parents and caregivers arranging transportation for children to schools in the Pinetown area, additional travel time may be required.

“If you must use the affected roads, please plan ahead and account for delays. I strongly recommend finding alternative routes to minimise disruption to your journey. Using other roads may help avoid congestion and ensure timely arrivals,” said the councillor.

Read more about the closure of the road in the next edition of the Highway Mail.

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