KNYSNA NEWS - About R17-million has been allocated from the municipal infrastructure grant for the upgrade of Grey Street in Knysna's central business district as part of the municipality's CBD renewal programme (CBDRP) to enhance the town's centre.

Knysna's municipal manager Dr. Sitembele Vatala said the R17-million reconstruction project would include the replacement of the old water pipeline, the total rebuilding of the road, parking and beautification of the area.

Vatala said construction work would start during the first week of February (this week) and is expected to be completed by April next year.

"Work will commence with the installation of an above ground temporary water pipeline before construction on the road will commence. This will diminish the impact on services to Grey Street property owners and tenants. Phase 2 will be the reconstruction of the road which will be done in blocks, continuing north until it reaches the Main Road. The first block will be between Waterfront Drive and Gordon Street," Vatala said.

Knysna's Grey Street will soon get a new R17-million lease on life when the municipality starts the upgrade of the street this week. Photo: Supplied

He added construction on Grey Street was set to be suspended over the Easter period, the Knysna Oyster Festival and December school holidays. 

"This action puts residents and visitors first to help them get where they need to go as quickly as possible during these holidays. The construction suspension is in keeping with the project ethos, which prioritises the convenience of all stakeholders, minimise traffic congestion, and travel delays during roadwork."

A project manager will be onsite throughout the project to ease communication between the contractor, residents and the business owners.

"We hope that this will improve communication between all parties and help to, for example, facilitate logistics like deliveries, ultimately ensuring a smooth running project."

"I know that work on the project may cause some frustration and inconvenience, but keep in mind that the end product will be an attractive, inclusive space for our residents."

The tender to carry out the project has been awarded to experienced joint venture Mapitsi Civil Works and IE Piping.

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