Media Release: De Hoop Road – Bo-Kouga in Uniondale almost restored to its former glory

24 October 2024

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Executive Mayor, Andrew Stroebel, accompanied by members of the Mayoral Committee and GRDM administration, visited the De Hoop Road (DR1835) in the Bo Kouga area near Uniondale today to inspect the completed repairs and upgrades. Uniondale forms part of the George municipal area and plays an integral part of the agricultural value chain with sheep, seed and fruit farming being the most popular.

Earlier this year, heavy rainfall severely damaged multiple roads in the region, with some sections completely washed away, isolating communities and disrupting access to and from farms. The Western Cape Provincial Government’s (WCG) Department of Infrastructure, under the leadership of Minister Tertuis Simmers, responded by allocating R20 million for emergency repairs to restore and improve the affected roads.

The restoration work to date had gone beyond simply repairing flood damage. The allocated funds were also used to enhance the drainage systems along these roads to prevent future damage, said Mayor Stroebel. The GRDM Construction team is leading the restoration and construction effort, with a total of nine roads in the region scheduled for completion by early 2025. According to Mayor Stroebel, Ongoing construction work is currently focused on Uniondale and Riversdale, with upcoming projects set to begin in Van Wyksdorp and Knysna.

A brief background of the flood damage and repairs

The flooding of the DR1835 road occurred when the adjacent river overflowed, washing away the road’s structural layers. The repair process required a complete reconstruction of the road’s foundation. In addition, significant improvements to the drainage system were made, including the replacement of stormwater culverts and the installation of drainage humps along the pass section.

To protect against future erosion, hand-built stone-pitched headwalls are being constructed using materials sourced from the road reserve. This project also incorporates the Expanded Public Works Programme, which provides local workers with valuable training and hands-on experience in the construction field.

Feature image: Mayor Andrew Stroebel with several Mayoral Committee Members, the Executive Manager for Roads Services and other support staff of Garden Route District Municipality.

ENDS