Transforming Gonubie Main Road

CBM Africa has partnered with Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) to revolutionise the primary access route to Gonubie. The upgrade of the Gonubie Main Road (GMR) to a four-lane continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP) ensures seamless travel for residents and visitors, making Gonubie more accessible than ever.

The upgrade project includes the construction of a 4.1km dual carriageway, designed to facilitate smoother traffic flow into and out of Gonubie. Key features of the project include:

• A 2.6m Central concrete median
• 3m wide foot and cycle path
• Enhanced lighting and service ducts
• Upgraded municipal water and stormwater infrastructure

The construction required extensive resources, including 31 350m³ of earthworks, 1 000 tonnes of rebar, and over 15 000m³ of concrete.

Executing the upgrade while keeping GMR operational posed significant challenges. As the only formalised access route into and out of Gonubie, one lane had to remain open throughout the construction process. Ensuring the safety of both motorists and construction staff was a top priority.

Initial delays arose from land ownership issues, which were resolved through negotiations based on a willing seller-willing buyer principle with landowners and BCMM. Additionally, the relocation of existing services needed careful coordination to minimise service interruptions. Early public notifications and meticulous planning facilitated the smooth relocation of these services.

The successful completion of the GMR upgrade has had a transformative impact on the area. The new four-lane CRCP road has significantly reduced traffic congestion and commute times, enhancing the quality of life for Gonubie residents. Furthermore, the project has opened up the GMR corridor to commercial development, fostering economic growth.

This project also marked a milestone for BCMM, as it was the first instance of CRCP technology being employed within the municipality’s boundaries. The innovative approach and successful execution of this project set a new standard for future infrastructure developments in the region.

CBM Africa's commitment to excellence in civil engineering is exemplified by the successful upgrade of the Gonubie Main Road. This project not only improved accessibility and safety for residents but also paved the way for the commercial growth and development of Gonubie. As CBM Africa continues to deliver cutting-edge infrastructure solutions, the positive impact on communities and economies will be felt for years to come.