WARD 18 councillor Melanie Brauteseth has appealed to motorists to exercise caution and patience as the long-awaited final phase of rehabilitation work on Stapleton Road is underway.

Brauteseth confirmed that the project, which has faced years of delays, is now moving into its final stage, with completion expected within the next month.

Stapleton Road has long been plagued by potholes, uneven surfaces and deteriorating conditions, making it a hazardous route for residents, businesses and commuters.

Also read: Going nowhere slowly – Stapleton Road construction drags

According to Brauteseth, the road has been one of her top priorities since taking office, with ongoing engagements with the KZN Department of Transport to ensure the project was delivered.

“Stapleton Road has been a priority for me since taking office. After years of frustration and repeated delays, I am proud to confirm that the final phase of rehabilitation work will now begin and will be completed within the next month,” she said.

Brauteseth explained that once completed, the rehabilitation is expected to provide a fully resurfaced road, improving safety, traffic flow and access for the surrounding community.

While welcoming the progress, Brauteseth acknowledged that roadworks would cause temporary disruptions and urged motorists to remain patient.

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

“I ask all motorists to be vigilant, patient and considerate around the construction zone. This is the final stretch of a long journey, and within weeks, Stapleton Road will be restored to the standard our community deserves,” she said.

Kristin Smith, the manager of Care Bears Wonderland preschool located just off Stapleton Road, said the road’s condition has posed serious safety risks for parents, staff and children.

“Our driveway is uneven and unsafe. Parents have to try and drive into the school while avoiding damaged sections of the road. People are having car accidents, motorists are swerving into oncoming traffic to avoid the manholes, and our vehicles are getting damaged. Insurance companies don’t want to pay because it’s one claim after another,” said Smith.

Smith said she hopes the road markings planned as part of the project will include a junction box outside the school to improve safety for families crossing the road.

“That junction box is one of the most important things for us because it allows residents and parents travelling with children, including babies as young as three months old, to cross safely. It gives motorists a place to yield so vehicles can turn into Bradford Place Road,” she said.

She added that she has been petitioning for the junction box since last year, following similar requests made over several years.

“We know speed humps aren’t an option, but a junction box would make a huge difference for everyone using the school.”

Despite the pending request, Smith praised the contractor overseeing the rehabilitation works, saying communication had been excellent.

“The work is progressing much quicker than I anticipated. The contractor contacted me on Thursday morning to ask about our peak traffic times so they could plan the tarring around school drop-off and collection times. They have been amazing.”

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