An R270 million Department of Transport and Public Works (DTPW) project to replace the single carriageway bridge over the N7 and the Malmesbury railway line with a dual carriageway bridge and a pedestrian bridge is making good progress. The project, which started in September 2021, is expected to be completed in February 2024.
Last week I visited the project site to assess progress for myself.
Traffic travelling along dual carriageways of the Plattekloof Road over the N7 currently becomes congested as it crosses the highway and the railway line at Refinery Interchange.
A new bridge is being constructed alongside the existing one. Once the new bridge is complete, traffic will be diverted onto the new bridge so that construction can begin on the old one.
The existing pavement structure on Plattekloof Road and on the interchange ramps will be replaced, which will make space for a 3-metre pedestrian sidewalk to be built on the southern side.
The Department is aware of the frustration that motorists experience during roadworks. However, once the bridge has been widened to two lanes in both directions, traffic will be able to move freely all the way along this part of Plattekloof Road and pedestrians will be able to cross the N7 safely. The new bridge will be long enough to permit the future expansion of the N7.
As part of the Department’s strategic focus to create employment opportunities, this project is expected to create 550 jobs and close to 63 000 person-days of work, as well as training opportunities.
We would like to thank motorists for their patience as the Western Cape Government engages in this infrastructure-led project to improve the road network, enable economic growth, and create short-term employment for people living near Refinery Interchange.
