PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - A proposed traffic circle to regulate vehicle and pedestrian traffic in Beacon Way between Checkers and the new Market Square has turned into a court battle.
Shoprite media confirmed to Knysna Plett Herald that an urgent interdict was sought to "pause construction at the intersection until a mutually acceptable way forward is established".
"While we cannot circulate detailed court papers, we can confirm that the application was brought to ensure that correct, transparent processes are followed," reads the media response from Shoprite.
The Market Square is to be relaunched today, Thursday 27 November, following an extensive renovation project that has seen many new tenants joining the address.
Earlier response
In an earlier response by Shoprite, before the court application, the group said it was aware of the proposed changes to the intersection on Beacon Way, including the potential construction of a traffic/pedestrian circle.
"We are in regular contact with Lynx Properties, the new owners of The Market Square, with our most recent engagement on this matter taking place last week.
The supermarket chain supports initiatives aimed at improving traffic flow and pedestrian safety in the area. Any proposed changes should be guided by a comprehensive, location-specific traffic impact assessment and the recommendations of qualified traffic engineers."
Well-informed decision
Shoprite said traffic counts for the inter-section were recently conducted, and it, along with other relevant stakeholders, are awaiting the results.
"Only once this data and the accompanying professional advice are available will we - and ideally all parties involved - be in a position to make a well-informed and responsible decision on the proposed changes.
Our priority is to ensure that any infrastructure changes are implemented in the best interests of the community, road users and the continued accessibility and viability of our adjacent centre, the Robberg Bay Shopping Centre." This centre houses its sister company Checkers.
Shoprite indicated that it will continue to engage with Lynx Properties and the Bitou Municipality as the process unfolds.
Four-way stop
On 21 November, Ward 2 Councillor Dave Swart posted on Facebook that he was advised that work on a traffic circle had been due to start on 14 November.
The work was subsequently stopped due to an objection via a court order.
Swart said the contractor had indicated that a four-way stop will be functioning at the intersection during season.
"A four-way stop was in effect last year at this intersection, so [it] should be effective in regulating traffic at this intersection. Please be considerate of others at this intersection to ensure a smooth traffic flow," said Swart.
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