A fatal accident that claimed the life of Ballito biker Heath Gibb (46) on November 22 has prompted urgent safety upgrades at the Seaward Estate north gate intersection on Ballito Drive.

In response to growing resident concerns, plans to install a speed bump at the hazardous intersection have been confirmed by Ballito’s Ward 30 councillor, Jack Abrahams. Heath’s widow, Jessica, believes her husband’s death could have been prevented, emphasising that the lack of speed bumps and the blind corner contributed to the tragedy.

“It’s a split-second that has changed our lives forever. Had there been a speed bump, perhaps Heath would still be alive and my children would still have a father,” said Jessica, who is left to raise her son (17) and daughter (2) alone.

This incident was not the first fatality at the intersection. In October 2016, Eric Maurel (long-time resident and owner of the Caltex garage, since sold and renamed Shiptech) died after being struck by a car exiting the same gate. Both Gibb and Maurel were on motorcycles, and both were hit by vehicles turning down into Ballito Drive.

Mandy Rootman, a resident for five years, describes the experience of exiting the north gate as “hectic” and a “nightmare.” She said the busy road, with taxis often stopping in the middle of the road in front of the gate, and vehicles going at high speeds worsen the situation.

“Every morning is like gambling with your life. Even when the road is clear and you try to go, there are taxis parked in the middle of the road and cars come speeding around the blind corner. It’s just a nightmare.”

Councillor Jack Abrahams said the speed hump would be installed by the end of February. He said two speed bumps would be ideal, but because the road is 12 metres wide, the KDM Civil Engineering Department can install only one speed hump.

Seaward Estate is considering installing a second speed bump at their own cost. Speaking on behalf of the Seaward Estate Master Homeowners Associations (SEMHOA), Andrew Bigley said they were relieved that this dangerous interchange would finally be addressed.

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