AfriForum Newcastle’s efforts to address the potholes littering the town’s roads are gaining significant momentum, thanks to the continued support from ArcelorMittal’s Newcastle Works.
On Wednesday, 20 September 2023, ArcelorMittal’s Newcastle Works further contributed 200 bags of 25kg cold mix to the organisation’s project.
This marks the second time the steel giant has supported the initiative, following the initial donation of tar at the end of August 2023.
Expressing their commitment to enhancing road safety, Joe Nowbath from AMSA’s Newcastle Works stated, “These are the community’s roads, and we all drive on them. We (AMSA) want to help keep the roads safe for people. Potholes can lead to accidents, and safety is critical to ArcelorMittal, both inside our premises and within the community. We want to help make Newcastle safe.”
Moreover, ArcelorMittal’s involvement didn’t end with the donation of tar. Meeting outside the Newcastle Works premises, AMSA engaged Tommy Koekemoer of Ilanga Surfacing to demonstrate pothole repair techniques to the various teams. The demonstration showcased methods to ensure the durability and longevity of the repairs, including cutting a diamond shape into the tarmac rather than a square shape, and utilising appropriate sealants.
Expressing their gratitude for AMSA’s support and the insightful demonstration, Dominee SW Scott and Peet Liebenberg of AfriForum Newcastle extended their heartfelt thanks to the steel giant. Liebenberg remarked, “We think it is amazing that ArcelorMittal can contribute to the need that has been identified in Newcastle.”
Emphasising the quality product provided by ArcelorMittal, Ds Scott assured the community that the tar provided would meet regulatory standards, offering smoother drives for Newcastle residents.
As previously published, AfriForum, in collaboration with Newcastle Municipality, has already successfully repaired over 100 potholes since the project’s launch. The initiative continues to garner support, with community groups like New City Newcastle offering their assistance.
Furthermore, pothole repairs are ongoing in various areas, including Drakensberg Drive, Impala Drive, and Victoria Road. “We have branched off into Paddock Drive, but we will continue working on Impala Drive until up to the Memel Road,” told Liebenberg.
However, this tireless project does not conclude here. Ds Scott confirmed, “From there we will be focusing on other main roads and be looking at the CBD.”
As the effort persists to ensure the safety of Newcastle’s roads, community support remains pivotal. Individuals eager to contribute to the project can contact AfriForum Newcastle via their Facebook page or contact SW Scott at 082 806 7484 or Peet Liebenberg at 082 809 9517.
We invite you to share your thoughts on this initiative in the comment section below and be sure to get involved to assist our town.
A big thank you to ArcelorMittal and Afriforum.
Please could the relevant involved parties urgently pay attention to the hazard that was created in Drakensberg Drive, between Erica Drive and Jupiter Avenue. A pothole was prepared for repair and not completed, but now results in trench that stretches more than half of the double lane road, and directly after a bend.
Sadly, the Ward 2 Councillor is missing in action, as always.
An urgent repair would be much appreciated, as not everyone owns a Hilux or a Ranger.
Thank you for your continued hard work and efforts, albeit in the absence of the Councillors begging for votes.
Thank you for your hard work and continued support it’s highly appreciated without you guys Newcastle was getting absolutely nowhere with repairs of our roads and you guys are making a huge difference in this Town
Please assist us in sorting out Boundary Road and Scott Street as well