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Saint Andrew’s Road Bridge Remains Unrepaired Prompting Concerns
Over two years have elapsed since reports of damage to the Saint Andrew’s Road Bridge, yet the condition of this crucial infrastructure continues to deteriorate. The bridge’s northern side and railing have suffered subsidence into the Hurlyvale Spruit, prompting Ward 18 Alderwoman Heather Hart to take action. In September, she submitted a petition to the City of Ekurhuleni, underlining the urgent need for repairs.
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The petition emphasises that the bridge’s apron slab initially sustained damage during the 2016 floods and was further deteriorated by subsequent flooding. This deterioration led to the sidewalk and railing collapsing into the Spruit. The bridge plays a significant role in the daily lives of the community, serving as a primary route for schoolchildren attending Hurlyvale Primary and Pre-primary schools and being popular among dog walkers and cyclists. If the bridge were to collapse, it would result in chaos for the community, according to Hart.
With the petition, Hart seeks the allocation of immediate funding and expedited bridge repair. The issue was first brought to attention in the early winter of 2020 and was subsequently raised by Hart. The roads department management advised remedial action at the time. During that period, significant subsidence and cracking were observed on the bridge’s northern side, with cracks ranging from a few centimetres to approximately 30 cm in width.
Despite these findings, efforts have been lacking to address the bridge’s condition and initiate repairs. The neglect has frustrated Hart, emphasising that the repair costs have escalated due to the prolonged inaction.
As of the time of printing, the City of Ekurhuleni had not responded to requests for comment made on October 11, with the deadline set for noon on October 13. The pressing issue surrounding the deteriorating Saint Andrew’s Road Bridge remains a growing concern for the local community.
Source: No action taken to repair Saint Andrew’s Road Bridge
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Photo: Supplied by Bedfordview Edenvale News
