The proposed construction of a traffic circle at the intersection of Cradock, Worcester and Somerset streets is being met with mixed responses from residents in the area.
The proposed construction of a traffic circle at the intersection of Cradock, Worcester and Somerset streets is being met with mixed responses from residents in the area.
The intersection has become a high accident zone due to its dangerous and confusing design. A traffic circle is expected to take up to four months to complete. The intersection will be renovated in stages and, while portions of it will be closed to traffic, it will remain operational during the construction.
Bill Sanderson of Aurecon Consulting Engineers who designed the traffic circle, said that the entire project is set to cost at least R3.5 million. Aurecon was initially approached by St Andrew’s College. The school has been increasingly concerned for the safety of their scholars due to a series of accidents having taken place at the intersection. Sanderson cautioned that portions of Worcester Street might be closed during the construction.
A student living on Worcester Street, Amina Ebrahim, said that she felt the intersection was not so much of a problem and a few traffic signals would be a cheaper solution.
"They have millions to spend on a traffic circle, but the streets are filthy because the workers are not being paid enough. Perhaps this money can be better spent," she said.
She blamed reckless drivers for the accidents and was concerned that often drivers don’t seem to be familiar with the traffic rules of a traffic circle, especially over who has right of way.
"I hope that the construction of the traffic circle does not cause more traffic problems", she added.
Communications officer at St Andrew’s College, Cherié Wille, said that a fatal accident had taken place on the corner near the St Andrew’s chapel last year but as of yet no scholars from St Andrew’s have been injured. Wille said that residents should keep an eye on the press for details about alternative routes for motorists to take while construction is taking place.
"The traffic department has been very helpful and St Andrew’s College greatly appreciates their concern and interest in the safety of the pupils and the community", she added.
The construction involves:
· A new Worcester Street link to Cradock Road
· Closure of the current Pear Lane link to Cradock Road
· A new road opposite Durban Street from Bedford Street
· The removal of the traffic island
· Raised pedestrian crossings for scholars from the schools nearby
Residents will be able to view drawings and raise questions with Jeff Roberts, the director of Aurecon Consulting Engineers, who will be at the City Hall on Tuesday, 4 August at 5.30 for an informative public meeting.
