Following earlier reports, Knysna Acting Municipal Manager Setloane Malepeng confirmed that B&V Contractors have taken over the emergency sewer rehabilitation works in the Knysna central business district.
“These essential works focus on repairing two significant sewer manhole collapses that have resulted in severe sinkholes at the intersections of Long and Union Streets and Mortimer and Trotter Streets,” Malepeng said. “The damage, caused by groundwater infiltration and erosion of foundational materials, has compromised road safety and disrupted traffic flow in the affected areas. It also poses a serious risk to both infrastructure and public safety.”
The scope of the project includes replacing two existing sewer manholes, excavating and installing new uPVC gravity mains along Gordon and Union Streets and conducting deep shoring and continuous dewatering to secure the sites and prevent further collapses. Once the sewer system is stabilized, the road layers and asphalt surfaces will be reinstated to restore traffic flow. The contractor will also implement stringent safety measures including hoarding, barricading and round-the-clock security to protect residents and ensure smooth operations.
Traffic Management Plan
To ensure safety during construction, several streets in the Knysna CBD will be affected by lane closures starting 25 November 2024 until the end of February 2025. The impacted areas include:
- Long Street up to Builders Express gate: full road width closure.
- Long Street to Union Street (approximately 20m): full road width closure.
- Long Street to Gordon Street (approximately 80m): single lane closure.
- Mortimer Street from Knysna Primary School gate to Gordon Street: full road width closure.
- Additional temporary road closures in Rawson, Mortimer, Trotter, and Grey Streets.
“Deep excavations, overpumping, dewatering and deep shoring will be carried out in these areas, requiring full or partial road closures to protect pedestrians and commuters,” explained Malepeng. “During construction, Gordon Street turning into Long Street toward Main Road will operate as a single lane to accommodate drop-offs at the Knysna Primary School front gate. This adjustment will remain in place until heavy equipment is removed or the project is completed.”
Construction is set to begin immediately and will be completed as quickly as possible to minimize disruptions. For urgent inquiries or concerns residents and business owners can contact the Contracts Manager, Mr. Marcel Geldenhuys, at 083 305 0343.
“This rehabilitation project is vital to ensure the long-term stability of our sewer system and the safety of our residents, especially near sensitive areas such as schools,” Malepeng concluded. “We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our community as we work to address this emergency. Your support is crucial as we restore our infrastructure and ensure a safer Knysna for everyone.”