Lane closures continue as N1 overhaul stretches into 2027
Bakwena’s major rehabilitation project on the N1 between Proefplaas and Pumulani has expanded after additional road defects were uncovered. The total investment now stands at R311-million, with completion delayed until March 2027 as upgrades continue along the route.
Motorists travelling on the N1 between the Proefplaas Interchange and the Pumulani Mainline Toll Plaza can expect continued roadworks over the coming months.
Bakwena Platinum Corridor Concessionaire advances a major rehabilitation programme aimed at improving one of Gauteng’s busiest transport routes.
The project, which began in August 2025, was initially budgeted at R276-million and scheduled for completion towards the end of 2026.
However, additional road surface repairs identified during construction have increased the total project cost to R311-million and extended the completion date to March 2027.
According to Bakwena spokesperson Charmaine van Wyk, the extra work became necessary after underlying pavement issues were uncovered during the rehabilitation process.
“The rehabilitation programme remains a critical investment in maintaining the safety, reliability and long-term sustainability of this important transport corridor. During construction, additional underlying road surface defects were identified which required further intervention. This resulted in an additional investment of R35-million and an extension of the project timeline to March 2027,” said Van Wyk.
The rehabilitation works cover a significant stretch of the N1 and include reconstruction of the base layer in the slow lanes in both directions, surface repairs at the Stormvoël and Zambezi interchanges, and targeted upgrades at the Proefplaas Interchange.
The project also includes a full asphalt overlay across both slow and fast lanes in each direction, the replacement of ageing road signs and repairs to concrete-lined drainage systems.
Construction is taking place during both day and night shifts, with the majority of disruptive activities scheduled outside peak traffic periods.
More than 22 000 tonnes of asphalt have already been laid during night-time operations between 19:00 and 06:00.
Van Wyk said Bakwena has placed considerable emphasis on reducing inconvenience to motorists while ensuring the work is completed safely and efficiently.
“Strict traffic management measures are in place throughout the project. While temporary lane closures are unavoidable, every effort is being made to minimise their impact, particularly during peak travel periods. Most major rehabilitation activities have therefore been scheduled for night shifts,” she said.
Road users should prepare for further traffic changes from mid-July when asphalt overlay works begin. These activities will require temporary closures of certain interchange ramps, including sections of the Proefplaas Interchange.
Bakwena said the long-term benefits of the rehabilitation programme will extend beyond improved driving conditions.
Once completed, the upgraded route is expected to provide smoother and safer journeys for commuters, improve freight efficiency and strengthen regional trade connections.
The project is also contributing to local economic development through job creation and the participation of small businesses and local suppliers in various aspects of the construction programme.
Van Wyk encouraged motorists to stay informed about ongoing traffic arrangements and lane closures.
“We encourage all road users to follow Bakwena’s official X platform, @bakwenan1n4, where regular updates on construction progress, traffic management measures, lane closures and alternative routes are shared,” she said.
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