The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has announced a full closure of the N3 highway near Ashburton from the evening of Friday, 9 May, to the early hours of Sunday, 11 May. The shutdown is necessary for the demolition of the Ashburton (Pope Ellis Drive) bridge, part of ongoing upgrades to the strategic N3 transport corridor.
The highway will be closed in both directions between the Lynnfield (Lion Park) and Market Road interchanges from 8:00 p.m. on Friday until 5:00 a.m. on Sunday. During this period, no vehicles will be permitted on the affected stretch of the N3.
"Full closures will be implemented at both Lynnfield and Market Road interchanges," confirmed Jason Lowe, SANRAL’s KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Specialist Geometrics Engineer. "The Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) will assist in managing traffic diversions."
Alternative Routes and Delays
Motorists are advised to use the R103 as an alternative route. Northbound traffic traveling from Durban to Pietermaritzburg should exit at Lynnfield and follow the R103 to rejoin the N3 at Market Road. Southbound motorists should follow the reverse route.
While Pope Ellis Drive will remain accessible, it will be regulated through a stop/go system during the bridge demolition. However, Lowe warned that significant congestion is expected: “The R103 cannot handle the same traffic volume as the N3. Delays are inevitable, especially for heavy goods vehicles.”
Travel Advisory
SANRAL has urged all road users to plan ahead, adjust travel times, and obey all temporary traffic signage and speed restrictions.
“Motorists, particularly those operating heavy vehicles, are encouraged to reschedule trips to avoid peak closure periods,” Lowe advised. “We apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate the public’s patience as we work to improve the country’s road infrastructure.”