On Monday, 8 September 2025, Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure, Tertius Simmers, reopened Main Road 310 (MR310), which connects Citrusdal to the N7 highway.
© Western Cape Governmen
The road was severely damaged by floods on 13 June 2023 and 11 July 2024, when the nearby riverbank collapsed and the Olifants River changed course, washing away large sections of the route. The loss of this access road left Citrusdal, a major citrus-producing area, cut off from key transport links, affecting both the local economy and residents.
The reconstruction project was declared an emergency repair to restore access and improve the road's resilience against future floods. Work began with the stabilisation of the riverbank, followed by the rebuilding of the road. This included the installation of new base layers, erosion protection measures, and the replacement and upgrading of the road's box culvert. The new culvert is designed to handle a 20-year flood event, reducing the risk of further damage.
© Western Cape Governmen
According to the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure, the cost of the repairs was R12.2 million in the 2023/24 financial year, with an estimated R26 million spent in 2024/25.
Minister Simmers said the project aimed to secure long-term access to Citrusdal, highlighting the importance of reliable transport infrastructure for agricultural production and economic activity in the area.
For more information:
Melt Botes
Western Cape Government
Tel: +27 (0) 21 483 8067
Email: [email protected]
www.westerncape.gov.za