Coedmore bridge reopens, restoring connectivity and hope for residents
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Date: 2025-08-14 16:35:03

Coedmore bridge reopens, restoring connectivity and hope for residents

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
13 AUGUST 2025
 
COEDMORE BRIDGE REOPENS, RESTORING CONNECTIVITY AND HOPE FOR RESIDENTS
 
There was excitement from residents when eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, officially reopened the Coedmore bridge, which was severely damaged in the April 2022 floods.
 
The upgrade, which cost R47 million, includes the construction of a 150-metre access road leading to the bridge, installation of traffic calming measures, and enhanced surface drainage systems to improve water management.  
 
Speaking during the opening, Mayor Xaba said the state-of-the-art bridge will benefit residents by eliminating their travel time, which had increased due to detours.  
 
“The bridge has been widened and is now two lanes. Following the damage caused by the floods, we are building back better and have rebuilt three bridges of this nature, with state-of-the-art, resilient infrastructure. So, even during heavy rains, the structures will not collapse,” he said.
 
Another benefit was job creation, as the project generated between 10 and 15 job opportunities each month, with community-based subcontractors contributing to specialised works such as earthworks, concrete placement, steel fabrication, drainage installation, landscaping, and electrical services.  
 
This inclusive approach ensured that economic benefits were shared locally, while building skills and capacity in the area.  
 
Mayor Xaba said that while completion was initially scheduled for late last year, delays were caused by unfavourable weather and unforeseen geotechnical complexities at the site.
 
“This rebuilt bridge is one of the three best bridges in the City. We are happy that we have these unique bridges, which have brought hope to people. We are not concerned about heavy rains as these bridges have been built to be resilient,” concluded Mayor Xaba.
 
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.