CONSTRUCTION is due to recommence on the N2 between Stanger and Ballito after a three and a half year standstill.
The roadworks, which saw the busy strip narrowed down to a single lane at the Umhlali River and Umvoti River, began in February 2016 and was set to be completed early 2017.
However, construction came to a stop when the contractor was unable to source materials.
It was later revealed that after a R15.5-million payment from the South African Road Agency (SANRAL), the main contractor Nyoni Projects, was put in liquidation.
Additional money to hire an engineer or project manager also added to the delay, as it was not yet approved by the national treasury.
Now, SANRAL East Region Manager, Ridwaan Mahomed said the procurement of construction tenders for the roadworks has commenced.
He stressed that the delays in appointing a new contractor were not caused by SANRAL.
‘It was never SANRAL’s intention for this work to be delayed for such a prolonged period.’
He said after the contract was terminated with the original contractor, SANRAL tried for months to resolve the way forward with National Treasury for appointing a new contractor as well as ensuring continuity regarding technical supervision.
‘We have only recently been approved to go ahead using the same supervision consultant and procuring a new contractor,’ said Mahomed, adding it was hoped to have a new contractor on site before the end of the year for a construction duration of approximately 10 months.
He added that four of the original contractors were invited to a tender briefing meeting as well as a visit to the site on 21 August with representatives from SANRAL and the supervising consulting engineer.
An award to the successful contractor will then be made before year-end.
Mahomed appealed to motorists to meanwhile proceed with caution and adhere to speed limits.