Eerste River pedestrian bridge, paths handed over to Stellenbosch
The pedestrian bridge across the Eerste River and a network of paths were officially opened on 2 November during a ribbon cutting ceremony by Jannie Durand (Chief Executive Officer, Remgro Limited) and Mayor Gesie van Deventer. The ceremony served as an official handover of the bridge and paths that were built by Remgro to the Stellenbosch Municipality and the public. The paths link Stellentia Avenue (entrance next to the Rupert Museum) with Aan-de-Wagenweg (at De Volkskombuis).
According to Durand it is a privilege to be involved in the continued development and improvement of Stellenbosch. “We are proud members of the Stellenbosch community and look forward to being a part of the various plans to invest into the broader community.”
The Mayor described the new pedestrian bridge and paths as “a huge asset for our community. As a municipality, we like to work with partners like Remgro that contribute to the development and improvement of our town. The paths create lovely alternative routes for residents and tourists who visit our town. Get on a bicycle or put on your walking shoes and come and discover the lovely paths! We thank Remgro for their contribution to improve and beautify our town.”
Remgro started with the Eerste River rehabilitation project in 2016. This included the pedestrian bridge as well as phase 1 of the paths as part of the greater Remgro property development master plan. The plan was drawn up in 2013 to convert the Lower Dorp Street area into a multiple development and a sought-after business sector. At the same time, it improved the environment for the broader Stellenbosch community.
The bridge and non-motorised (NMT) transport paths are the first part of the master plan. A distinct feature is that it creates a safe pedestrian and NMT route across the Eerste River from Stellentia Avenue and underneath the R44 through to Aan-de-Wagenweg. The route includes lighting and closed-circuit television and will be monitored by the municipality. The paths create alternative routes for workers, learners, pedestrians, cyclists and tourists between the Stellenbosch station, Die Boord, Onder Papegaaiberg and the University/Coetzenburg.
The river rehabilitation campaign goes hand in hand with the construction of the bridge and paths and includes the removal of alien plant species and planting of indigenous plants. The riverbanks are also being rehabilitated for flood control and stabilisation. According to a maintenance agreement with the municipality, Remgro will undertake the maintenance of the riverbanks and the paths until the end of 2023.
Phase 2 of the paths project, which is subject to a public participation and amendment process, runs from Aan-de Wagenweg to the Krige Street wooden bridge. This will create a safe alternative route for learners from the surrounding schools.
The following Aan-de Wagenweg projects are part of the Remgro property master plan and have been completed: the restoration of De Volkskombuis Restaurant, the Aan-de-Wagenweg turning circle and the Southern Sun de Wagen Hotel that opened its doors in 2021.
The widening of Lower Dorp Street (between the R44 and Adam Tas Road) has been planned to relieve traffic congestion in Lower Dorp Street. A heritage impact study and public participation process for this project have been completed.
Remgro is also participating in the Adam Tas Corridor project to benefit the broader Stellenbosch community.
