R770m R102 rehabilitation project between Port Shepstone and Umzumbe questioned

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26-01-2026
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South Coast Herald
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Many businesses are already under severe strain and prolonged delays threaten livelihoods and jobs.

Concerns have been raised over prolonged delays to the R102 road rehabilitation project, between Port Shepstone and Umzumbe, with allegations of deliberate hold-ups and possible non-payment issues, now placing the R770m project under scrutiny.

The rehabilitation and resurfacing of the first section, from the Mzimkhulu River bridge to Rethman Drive, started in May 2025. Nine months later, work has effectively ground to a halt.

During a site visit last Tuesday, the Herald found the contractor’s site office on Link Road, Umtentweni locked, with only a security guard present.

Business owners along the route say the delays are placing them under severe financial strain, threatening jobs and long-term sustainability.

“Businesses have been affected negatively by this construction. We want answers and deadlines. We understand that the road needs repairs, but it’s taking far too long,” said business owner Lee Barker.

John Beekman, chairperson of the Port Shepstone Country Club and managing director of The Beekman Group, described the R102 as a main arterial road feeding the lower South Coast.

“Its prolonged disruption has far-reaching consequences for commuters, residents, small businesses, tourism operators and employers who rely on accessibility to survive,” he said.

“The contractors previously committed to having at least one lane completed and tarred by the end of November 2025. Unfortunately, this milestone was not achieved. We have since been informed that delays may be linked to payment issues, but this does not adequately account for the the extent of the stoppages or the ongoing lack of visible progress on site.”

Beekman added that the absence of clear communication has worsened the situation.

“Businesses and residents have received no structured updates, no revised timelines and no forward-looking work schedule. This makes it impossible for us to plan, to communicate honestly with customers and visitors, or to mitigate the financial losses we continue to suffer.”

He urged the KZN Department of Transport (DoT) and Public Works, together with the appointed contractors, to engage meaningfully with the community and to prioritise the completion of this critical infrastructure project.

Ward 16 councillor John Williams said he is deeply disappointed that the major rehabilitation programme has stalled.

“This is a two-year contract costing hundreds of millions of rands. Residents are inconvenienced by the dusty and poorly maintained R102, and businesses that hoped for relief after the bridge reopening must be shaking their heads in disbelief,” he said, adding that he will raise the matter with the MEC for DoT, Siboniso Duma.

The South African National Taxi Council Ugu region’s secretary, Richard Mchunu, said taxi operators and commuters are also severely affected as this is the easiest route linking the CBD and surrounding areas.

“We are happy that the bridge has opened, but it is also difficult driving on the R102. Our passengers are frustrated and end up putting pressure on the drivers, and that’s how you find drivers sometimes speeding because they are rushing to drop off passengers. We hope that work picks up soon.”

Port Shepstone Business Forum (PSBF) CEO Vijay Naidoo confirmed that the forum is aware of growing frustration within the business sector.

“These routes are critical to economic activity on the South Coast. Prolonged delays negatively affect trade, logistics, tourism and business sustainability,”

He said while the PSBF is not the implementing authority for these projects, the forum plays an advocacy and oversight role on behalf of the business community. The forum is part of the DoT stakeholder engagements and receives project plans and updates through these platforms.

“We use this information to raise concerns, advocate for local businesses and highlight the economic impact of delays on the region. Businesses have reported reduced foot traffic, increased operating costs and uncertainty due to what appears to be limited progress on site,” he said, adding that the lack of clear and consistent communication around revised timelines has intensified concern.

Nazir Shaikh, chairperson of the North Cluster Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Association, said parents and motorists have also voiced frustration with stop-and-go traffic and deteriorating road conditions. Residents are now calling on Ray Nkonyeni Municipality mayor Zodwa Mizindle and Duma to intervene directly.

The DoT, the appointed contractor Jamjo Civils and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality were approached for comment, but none had been received at the time of going to press.

Businesses are calling for:

* Transparent communication from the main contractors.

* A realistic, updated project timeline.

* Regular (weekly) progress meetings with affected stakeholders, including local businesses and community representatives.