Once completed, the road will improve access, mobility for all road users including tourists.
The N2 Wild Coast Road (N2WCR) is a catalytic route for regional, local and socio-economic development.
Spinoffs from N2WCR project
As a flagship project of South African National Roads Agency (SOC) Limited (SANRAL), the N2WCR is expected to bring much-needed changes to the local and national economy, boost tourism and improve transport nodes.
In terms of transport, we can expect to see significantly faster delivery times and lower transportation costs. It is estimated that approximately R1.55-billion will be saved per annum in time costs savings for motorists and freight operators.
The project will have a major positive impact on GDP through accelerated business development and income-multiplier effects. For every R1 invested by Government approximately R3.15 will be generated in GDP (ROI of 3.15).
The N2WCR greenfield portion will be an investment of over R9-billion.
This, together with local socio-economic development, will provide job opportunities, (8 000 full time equivalent direct jobs and 16 to 18 000 indirect jobs) during construction.
Economic development opportunities for local SMMEs and local businesses, both direct and indirect, will be created.
There will be positive impact on the economies of Port St Johns, Lusikisiki and Mzamba, as well as towns such as Flagstaff, Bizana and Holy Cross.
Mobility and development
In addition to SMME development and local socio-economic growth, the project will also improve access for agriculture, health care, education and other social and economic opportunities.
Once completed, the road will improve access, mobility and will attract more tourists to the area. This will lead to major eco-tourism and conventional tourism opportunities.
This project currently includes two 24-month training and development programmes for 20 SMMEs. Three programmes have already been completed where 31 SMMEs received similar training.
There are other training and development projects in the planning stages and they will be rolled out over the next three years.
Current disputes about the Mtentu Bridge contract will, unfortunately, lead to delays. SANRAL is disappointed by the decision of the contractor to terminate construction activities.
However, we remain committed to this project because of its potential to contribute to the economic transformation of the Eastern Cape.
This is an opinion piece by Skhumbuzo Macozoma, SANRAL CEO.