Buses and taxis to have new pick-up areas in Sheppie CBD
The plan is to transform Port Shepstone taxi rank into an integrated, ‘intermodal’ facility which is also to include a new shopping mall. The existing bus rank is being converted into a temporary taxi rank.
Plans to convert the Port Shepstone taxi rank into an integrated intermodal facility have commenced.
The first phase, which includes converting the existing bus rank into a ‘temporary’ taxi rank has begun, with buses having been moved to Chris Hani Square (the former Dick King car park).
ALSO READ : Big changes for Port Shepstone taxi rank
On Monday, commuters were prompted to use Chris Hani Square to board their buses.
Although most commuters are happy with the new arrangement, saying it meant they did not have as far to walk, concerned businessmen have raised several concerns over the new set-up in the already heavily congested Port Shepstone CBD.
At a recent meeting between the Port Shepstone Business Forum and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, the general feeling from the business forum was that not enough consultation had taken place, particularly with business owners, who feared ‘huge disruption’ for the 18 months to two years of the construction phase.
During this time, traffic would be severely disrupted and there would be limited access to many businesses.
At the meeting, business forum members demanded to know if roads would deteriorate even further in the CBD, whether an impact study had been conducted and whether their businesses would suffer and if so, for how long.
On paper, the plan is to transform Port Shepstone taxi rank into an integrated, ‘intermodal’ facility which is also to include a new shopping mall.
The existing bus rank is being converted into a temporary taxi rank – at a cost of R10-million – within the next few months.
Meanwhile motorists have to find alternative parking as Chris Hani Square is reserved for buses only.
The business forum executive is set to meet with RNM shortly to plot a way forward.
RNM spokesman Simon April confirmed that buses are now using the street between Chris Hani Square and the old post office building to pick up passengers.
“Depending on the number of buses at pick-up times, some will have to use Chris Hani Square,” Mr April said.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
For news straight to your phone, add us on WhatsApp 082 421 6033
