Sol leases portion of proposed N12 bypass

A PORTION of the proposed N12 bypass road in Long Street has been leased by the Sol Plaatje City Council for the erection of temporary carports for second-hand vehicles.

The bypass road has been on the cards for the past 20 years and there is still no indication when, and if it will be built.

Municipal spokesperson, Sello Matsie, said yesterday that several developers had previously enquired about the possibility of purchasing the ground for the erection of various buildings, including a church, business and even a school.

“While the site has been vacant for many years, it forms part of the proposed N12 bypass, so it cannot be sold by the municipality and no permanent construction can be erected on the site,” said Matsie.

“The site forms part of the band that is earmarked strictly for movement/mobility purposed or road development,” Matsie said. “However, transport-orientated business enterprises are promoted in this neighbourhood.”

Matsie said the Sol Plaatje City Council had, therefore, in 2010 already agreed to lease the land to Sovereign Motors for the erection of temporary carports for the sale of second-hand vehicles of Sovereign Motors (BMW).

“The applicant is aware of the fact that the portion forms part of the bypass road and that no permanent structures will be allowed on the portion.”

The rental will be for a period of three years, with a six-month notice period. The six-month notice period will be applicable should the construction of the proposed road be proceeded with.”

According to Matsie, a rental valuation of R500 per month (at the time the lease was given the go-ahead by the municipality in 2010) was determined by the municipality’s valuation department.

Matsie added that portions of land to be used for the proposed road are still in private ownership and must still be purchased/expropriated. “These portions are situated on the southern side of Kimberley.

“Given the growth of the city, the development of a bypass road is still relevant, and this has been made even more evident by the heavy traffic coming through the city following the closure of Bultfontein Road. A bypass road will alleviate this pressure, particularly that caused by heavy vehicles.”

Matsie reiterated, however, that no decision has been taken in this regard as yet.