For SANRAL, it is crucial that its projects not only significantly contribute to economic development and job creation, but that a legacy of empowerment is left behind after completion of the construction work.
The upgrade of the N7 in Malmesbury goes way beyond construction and has social inclusion at its very core.
With a budget of R505-million, this project has since January 2015 created more than 500 work opportunities for locals.
This has far-reaching consequences in terms of the economic development of this town. The existing single carriageway of the N7 Section 1 from km48 to km52 is being upgraded to a dual carriageway freeway, which would tie into the existing dual carriageway section, beginning south of the Darling Road interchange at km52.
This interchange is being upgraded in order to improve the capacity for traffic movement between the western and eastern parts of Malmesbury, situated on opposite sides of the N7.
This is accomplished by dualling the Darling/Bokomo road under the N7 and improving the layout of the N7 ramps and ramp terminals.
A legacy of empowerment
For SANRAL, it is crucial that its projects not only significantly contribute to economic development and job creation, but that a legacy of empowerment is left behind after completion of the construction work.
Project Liaison Officer on this project, Lilian Leukes, has put her heart and soul into ensuring she facilitates as many developmental opportunities as possible for the locals to benefit from inclusion in this project.
“Many of our local residents have as a result of this project been able to put food on the table, while others have used this as a launchpad to further their education and career growth,” said Leukes.
On a project of this magnitude challenges are par for the course, and according to Grant White, Site Agent of the Stefanutti Stocks Power Consortium, pedestrian and traffic accommodation during construction was one the major challenges but lauds the community for the patience and cooperation during the construction period.
Steph Bredenhann, SANRAL Project Manager said: “This project is in the final stages and we are incredibly proud not only of the world-class quality of the N7 in terms of the road user experience, but also of the major role that the construction industry has and continues to play in spearheading economic development in our country.”