Full closure to facilitate blasting between Ashburton and Market Road

TRAFFIC ADVISORY

Full closure to facilitate blasting between Ashburton and Market Road

Pietermaritzburg, 5 November 2024 – Part of the N3 will be fully closed on 10 December 2024, between 14h30 and 15h00 to facilitate blasting next to the existing Ashburton Overpass Bridge. This work will be undertaken as part of the N3 Section 3 Upgrade Project from Market Road and the Ashburton offramp, the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced.

Closures will also be necessary on Pope Ellis Drive at the Ashburton intersection and R103 to Ashburton interchange as they are in the vicinity of the blasting activities.

The full road closures are proposed to take place as follows:

10 December (Tuesday):
14h30 to 14h45: Close N3 and other listed roads and blast.
14h45 to 14h55: Clean up any debris on all roads.
14h55 to 15h00 : Final Road Safety Inspection.
15h00: Re-open N3 and other listed roads for all vehicles.

The R103 route will be available as an alternative route during the blast. Substantial delays may, however, be experienced as the N3 will be closed during the period of the blast.

“The contractor’s traffic accommodation team, with support from the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) will oversee traffic management activities throughout the blasting activity.” said Jason Lowe, SANRAL’s Eastern Region Project Manager.

The closure may need to be adjusted depending on the weather conditions on the day. If that happens, an updated notice with information about the new time will be issued.

“Motorists are urged to remain patient during disruptions caused by the construction and are advised to plan and adjust their routes while adhering to speed limits. SANRAL apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s patience during the ongoing major road enhancements.” said Lowe.

Blasting Locations:

Km 3+800 North Bound Between Ashburton and Market Road.

 

Alternative Routes:

Figure 1: Alternative Route for Blasting.

NOTE: Ashburton/Pope Ellis will be closed for blasting, traffic will be directed via the R103 route. The traffic will be allowed to take the Market Road offramp to the N3 Mainline as shown in Figure 1 above in red.

//Ends