Residents frustrated over poorly executed pavement project on Kudu Avenue

Discontent is mounting along Kudu Avenue as residents criticise the City’s approach to a recent pavement upgrade.

Complaints range from disruptive water outages and substandard workmanship to concerns over drainage issues and lack of community engagement. 

Residents report that the City crews began work more than a month ago, in the middle of Kudu Avenue, the only road undergoing upgrades. No prior consultation occurred, and early into the project, a digger loader struck a main water pipe, leaving locals without water for four hours.

“The pavement is flat, at the same level as the road, it looks like the project wasn’t planned properly,” said resident Michael Liebenberg.

They argue that the pavement should have been elevated above road level to enable water to drain correctly, particularly given that Kudu Avenue was the only road in Lotus River with one side filled with sand.

Lorna Hess, 84, expressed her frustration, saying she has lived at her home for 58 years and finally hoped for proper pavements.

“The street has always been dirty. On rainy days, we have pools of water and mud across the walkway.”

Mary Koekoe, a resident of more than 50 years, said: “The contractor’s workmanship is a mess. The pavement is too narrow and flat - it serves no purpose. And now the workers are gone; there’s no one on site.”

Community leader Lyle Lawrence, who is managing residents’ complaints, criticised the City for minimal financial commitment and the absence of public participation.

“Residents only saw the contract notice on site - no one communicated with them. They believe the City should reconsider the plan and extend the pavements to 2.5 metres; currently, only 1.5 metres is being done. That leaves space toward their gates that’s prone to flooding.”

Homeowners in the centre of the street also expressed frustration. They threatened to halt work when the contractor returns, unless Ward 65 councillor Donavon Nelson explains: “Why were they getting 1.5-metre pavements without driveways, whereas neighbouring streets received full-width, neat, curb-separated pavements?” said Mr Lawrence.

In response, Mr Nelson said he had already committed to the project in public meetings in 2023.

"This is a commitment I have made to the community in public meetings held in 2023 already. ⁠I have met multiple residents on site and have explained to them why the pavement is the size it is, because the verge is bigger in Lotus River. The City is not responsible for the verge,” he said.