Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, happy with the progress at IDZ road construction site that restores dignity of Vredendal beneficiaries.
The construction of the Eastern Access road in Saldanha is well on track. The project which started on the 16 of September 2022 created 27 permanent jobs. The Western Cape Infrastructure Minister, Tertuis Simmers said, “through this infrastructure project, more than 27 permanent employees can now put food on the table and provide for their families.” The industrial Development Zone (IDZ) will be completed in the first quarter of 2023.
Minister Simmers further added that through the IDZ access road infrastructure project, motorists will also benefit from the new main road. “Industrial and public traffic currently enter Saldanha via a quarter loop between main roads which is not ideal. Once complete, Main Road 561 will provide a more direct route with improved mobility.” The safety of all motorists in the province remains a top priority.
The construction of the Eastern Access Road will also benefit the heavy goods transport sector. “Another benefit is that the road pavement was designed for heavy industrial traffic and should provide excellent driving quality for many years to come.”
This R24 500 000.00 project has also given two temporary employees a job opportunity to assist and another six may be required. “I want to thank the project manager, department and all the construction workers for their hard work and dedication. Without them the project would’ve never been completed.”
The next stop on Minister’s itinerary was the housing handover ceremony in Vredendal, a project that has delivered 162 housing opportunities to date. Minister Simmers reminded the community that through patience, perseverance and hope, dreams do come true. “That dream you had is no longer a dream, that dream turned into a realty when you received the keys. Look after your homes, when people want to come to you to rent out your home, say no. Remember this is your house, your dream and you waited a long time for it.”
The beneficiaries couldn’t contain their excitement and joy as the keys were handed over to them. Gert Beukes and his family thanked the Western Cape Government and minister Tertuis Simmers. “Today is an amazing day for me.” We want to thank the Lord because He gave us today a key to our house. Also thank you to you (the ministry, department). It is a privilege to walk into your own home” said a tearful and emotional, Jenine Van Zyl, who thanked minister Tertuis Simmers and the department when receiving the keys to her own home. “I want to thank everyone especially my mother who has been with me through it all.”
The lives of the residents of Vredendal have been changed for the better, as the Western Cape Government continues to restore hope and dignity of all citizens through a dedicated focus on building infrastructure that connects citizens to their communities and the opportunity to seek employment.
Media Enquiries:
Graig-Lee Smith
Spokesperson for Minister Tertuis Simmers
Graig-Lee.Smith@westerncape.gov.za
021 483 5224 (o)
066 396 8382 (m)
Mr. Nathan Adriaanse
Director: Communication and Stakeholder Relations
Nathan.adriaanse@westerncape.gov.za
021 483 2868 (o)
083 263 1720 (m)