N3 set for full overnight closure between Armitage and Cedara

Sanral announces temporary road closure closure that will affect a section of the N3

May 22, 2026

Nompilo Kunene 2 minutes read

Temporary N3 closure announced PHOTO: Sanral/FB

Motorists using the N3 between Pietermaritzburg and Hilton are advised of a temporary full closure scheduled for the weekend of June 6, to allow for luminance testing of newly installed roadway lighting.

The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) said the closure will affect the section between the Armitage Road interchange (Midlands Mall) and the Cedara interchange, The Witness reports.

Sanral KZN provincial specialist geometrics engineer Jason Lowe said construction of the lighting infrastructure along this stretch of the N3 is nearing completion, with the testing forming part of final quality assurance checks.

“The luminance testing forms a critical part of the quality assurance process to ensure the lighting system meets required standards and significantly improves road safety for all users,” said Lowe.

The full closure will be in place from 8 pm on Saturday, June 6, 2026, until 4.30 am on Sunday, June 7, 2026.

The testing zone includes the Peter Brown and Hilton interchanges, which will also be inaccessible during the closure period.

During the shutdown, traffic will be diverted via the R103, with comprehensive traffic accommodation measures in place. Sanral said the plan has been co-ordinated with the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) and uMngeni Traffic authorities.

Alternative routes

Northbound traffic (Durban to Johannesburg) will be diverted off the N3 at the Armitage Road Interchange and redirected via Old Howick Road (R103) to Cedara. Heavy vehicles exceeding eight tonnes will be held at designated staging areas along the route.

Southbound traffic (Johannesburg to Durban) will be diverted from Cedara Interchange via Cedara Road (R103), Old Howick Road, Athlone Circle, Montgomery Drive, Town Bush Road and Chatterton Circle before rejoining the N3 at Armitage Road.

Several on and off-ramps, including Town Bush Road, Peter Brown and Hilton interchanges, will also be closed during the operation.

Sanral said the closure schedule may be adjusted depending on weather conditions, with updates to be issued if necessary.

Motorists are urged to plan ahead and allow extra travel time. Heavy vehicle operators are encouraged to delay travel through the affected section where possible.

Sanral apologised for the inconvenience and thanked road users for their patience during the final stages of the lighting upgrade.

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