Locals and holidaymakers alike can breathe a sigh of relief as one lane on Clarence Drive (R44) has been reopened to traffic this afternoon (Tuesday 20 December).
This after the section between Gordon’s Bay and Rooi Els was closed following damage to the roadway during a heavy storm last Monday (12 December). Mudslides and rockfalls led to extreme damage to certain parts of the road.
The provincial Department of Transport and Public Works issued a statement this afternoon stating its intention to reopen one lane on the coastal road as of 16:00 today. However, the department said repair work will continue in the affected lane. “While the roadway may seem in a good condition following the clean-up operations, there are sections where the road surface has been undermined and is not safe for any weight,” the statement read.
“Traffic flow will be managed through stop/go signs. Road users are warned that, while we will try our best to stick to shorter waiting times, these may be as long as two to three hours depending on the type of work being done.”
The department has obtained the necessary authorisations to repair the road and is currently establishing a construction site on the route. “Certain equipment is being moved to the construction site by crane,” the department warned.
It further also warned that the road may be completely closed without prior notice for safety and operational reasons, urging motorists to use the N2 highway instead, as the scenic road presents only a few places to safely turn around to seek an alternative route. “I would like to urge all road users to be patient during this busier time on our roads,” implored Tertius Simmers, provincial minister of infrastructure.
Should the road be completely closed, it will be closed to all road users and anyone failing to adhere to the restrictions faces personal danger and serious repercussions. “Apart from emergency vehicles responding to an emergency, no special requests can be accommodated during a full closure.”
