N1 Eastern bypass construction in progress

Construction of the N1 Eastern bypass around the city that re-commenced on 10 September last year at an estimated cost of R260,36 million is progressing with a recent milestones being the opening of the De Roodepoort bridge overpass. Edwin Construction (Prt) Ltd was awarded the contract to complete the project that was originally awarded to Basil Read (Pty) Ltd that was placed under business rescue on 14 June last year.
South African National Roads Agency Soc Ltd (Sanral) project manager Alan Agaienz said that the estimated completion date of the project is 9 November. “The contractor is 15 days behind contract but hopes to make up the lost time,” Agaienz added.
“The most recent milestone on the project was the opening of the De Roodepoort bridge overpass at the southern entrance to the city. Residents are now able to use the bridge. This is good news for those who stay east of the N1 and have had a long detour onto the R37 for the past year,” Agaienz explained.
According to Agaienz, R17,2 million has been spent on the contract since September 2019. An amount of R2,2 million has been spent on employment of labour and R15,87 million will be spent by contract end. Targeted enterprises (Level three to five subcontractors) earned R1,9 million to date and a further R31,15 million is expected to be spent for the total contract.
Agaienz requested the continuing support of all stakeholders throughout the contract and thanked all affected persons and stakeholders for their patience and understanding.

Story: BARRY VILJOEN
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