THE news of increased delays to roadworks as a result of repeated supply problems and budget hold-ups has led to greater frustration among residents and local leadership in Durban North.

The pipeline and road–rehabilitation project began in 2022. Its scope involved replacing an ageing asbestos feeder pipe beneath Waterkant Road — feeding Athlone and Umgeni Park — with a new 200mm plastic line, and resurfacing the road afterwards.

By April 2025, the pipe replacement was reported as complete, but the resurfacing and reinstatement of the road and cycle lane had stalled.

“The project has been delayed due to plant resource constraints, specifically the Tractor Loader–Backhoe (TLB) and the tar cutting blade as well as the finalisation of budget adjustments. The project has been on hold since July 2025. We are currently awaiting the necessary budget adjustments to be captured accordingly before work can resume on site. Project completion is now anticipated by the end of the year,” said City spokesperson Gugu Sisilana.

Ward 36 councillor Heinz de Boer criticised the city’s explanation and the ongoing disruption.

“It is indeed sad when these excuses for non-completion of the project are put forward as reasons. A simple site visit would reveal the tar has already been cut at the bottom of Swapo Road, and that work can commence. Budget is more likely the cause of the delay, as there were more than 10 staff on site at project, during which work was not optimally completed due to TLB delays,” he said.

“Additionally, the City continues to battle a delay in backfill and tar. These challenges are unacceptable. Whereas I am aware of a budget allocation to finish this project. There are many more needed in the ward. The four–year delay on Waterkant does not bode well for future projects.”

Residents and user groups have raised safety concerns, citing the state of the cycling lane and roadway while works stalled.

In July 2024 the cycling lane had been rendered unsafe, forcing cyclists into motor traffic, but tar has been laid and can be utilised by cyclists again.

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