After years of complaints, potholes on Printech Avenue in Laser Park have finally been repaired, bringing relief to residents and motorists who have long endured hazardous driving conditions.

Naz Ismail, a representative of the Laser Park Business Association (LBA), said that despite ongoing engagement and logged service requests, potholes reported to the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) since March 2025 went unattended until now.

During this period, the road continued to deteriorate, with large potholes disrupting traffic flow and posing serious safety risks for regular users of the route.

“It was only in February this year that meetings were held between the LBA, JRA officials and road inspectors to assess the extent of the damage. Following these engagements, Printech Avenue was identified as one of the worst-affected roads and prioritised for repairs,” Ismail said.

She added that work was initially scheduled to begin in late February but was delayed due to an asphalt plant breakdown, rainfall and limited staff availability.

JRA teams began repair work on March 18, patching potholes along Printech Avenue. They returned the following day to complete outstanding work on both Printech and Zeiss roads after initially running out of asphalt.

Ward 97 councillor Jacques Hoon said the repairs, while welcome, do not reflect meaningful progress on the broader condition of roads in the area. Speaking in a video recorded on site, he said many roads in the ward remain in a poor state.

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“The fact of the matter is, the MMC has failed us as a ward. At least 70% of our roads are riddled with potholes. We have areas in Strubens Valley where residents can’t access their homes,” Hoon said, adding that Printech Avenue should have been resurfaced years ago.

“The community has sent thousands of requests, and I have also sent many letters from my office, with no response. Then all of a sudden, he is here claiming some victory for the ward which does not exist,” he added.

Residents have welcomed the repairs. Chairmaine Wesson said the condition of the road had been a constant concern.

“I am absolutely thrilled it is finally fixed. I now don’t have to worry about my son on his motorbike hitting a pothole and falling,” she said.

However, concerns remain, as potholes on Ridge Road and sections of Zeiss Road are still unrepaired. JRA representative Geralda de Koker said teams would return to complete the outstanding work.

The JRA was approached for comment regarding delays and timelines for further repairs, but had not responded at the time of publication.