Diaz Road and Jeffreys Street upgrade completed

Pictured are Hattingh Bornman (Kouga Local Municipality Executive Mayor) and Jacqui Bursey (Jeffreys Bay Surf School).

JEFFREYS BAY - Kouga Local Municipality has completed a R1.15 million infrastructure project aimed at improving pedestrian safety, accessibility and traffic calming along Diaz Road and at the intersection of Jeffrey Street and Schelde Street.

The completed project included the widening of the existing sidewalk along Diaz Road and the construction of a raised intersection at the corner of Jeffrey Street and Schelde Street.

The total contract value was R1 150,000, with R896 085.55 allocated to the Diaz Road sidewalk upgrade and R253 914.45 to the construction of the raised intersection.

Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, said the completion of the project represents another practical investment in infrastructure that directly benefits residents and road users.

“We are pleased to see this project completed and delivering tangible benefits to the community. Infrastructure is ultimately about people – making our towns safer, more accessible and more functional for everyone,” said Bornman.

“The improved sidewalk provides pedestrians with a safer and more spacious route, while the raised intersection contributes to improved road safety and traffic calming. These are the kinds of projects that make a real difference in people’s daily lives.”

Improved pedestrian infrastructure

The Diaz Road sidewalk was widened by approximately three metres over a distance of 150 metres, significantly increasing the available pedestrian space.

The upgrade included the removal and replacement of approximately 150 metres of kerbing, with the new kerb line aligned to the widened sidewalk. G5-quality material was used behind the new kerb and compacted to the required specifications.

Approximately 250m² of existing paving was removed as part of the upgrade. The newly completed pedestrian area includes approximately 680m² of 50mm bevel-edge pavers and 150m² of 80mm interlocking pavers.

Four motor slopes were also constructed to provide smoother transitions between the roadway and sidewalk, with appropriate gradients and levels to support accessibility and drainage.

The upgraded area was further enhanced through the installation of benches and bollards, providing a more functional and pedestrian-friendly environment.

Safer intersection

The project also included the construction of a raised intersection at Jeffrey Street and Schelde Street.

The raised intersection is intended to encourage reduced vehicle speeds and improve visibility and safety at a point where pedestrians and motorists interact.

Bornman said road safety and accessibility remain important priorities for the municipality.

“Our communities need infrastructure that works for everyone – including pedestrians, motorists, children, older residents and people with mobility challenges. The completed upgrades improve the way people move through this area and create a safer environment for all road users,” he said.

The project also included the removal and responsible disposal of construction debris and surplus materials at an approved spoil location.

Bornman said the completion of the project forms part of Kouga Local Municipality’s ongoing investment in maintaining and improving infrastructure across its towns.

“We remain committed to ensuring that municipal investment translates into visible improvements on the ground. A wider sidewalk, safer crossing and improved intersection may seem like relatively small interventions, but together they contribute to a safer, more accessible and better-functioning community,” he said.