The project enabled the employment of thirty local labourers in total. Through a learnership and training programme, the Contractor provided in-service mentorship to two local students. The Contractor also provided mentorship to local Contractors via the contract. In addition, the local labour employed, were trained in steel fixing and gabion basket construction. The expansion of residential and industrial areas in the surrounding region has made the Canelands Bridge a critical pedestrian access route. Prior to its reconstruction, pedestrians - many of whom crossed the bridge daily were faced with a narrow and hazardous walkway. Recognising the need for improved pedestrian infrastructure, the team prioritized enhancing the walkway’s design. The new bridge provides a safer, more dignified route for daily commuters, schoolchildren, and workers - many of whom previously avoided the crossing altogether. Quantifiable time, cost and quality Seamless collaboration between Naidu Consulting, the Contractor (Afrostructures), and the Client (eThekwini Municipality W&S) ensured that construction progressed with exceptional attention to quality, financial discipline, and schedule adherence and is now fully operational, providing a safe, more resilient and reliable pedestrian and utility crossing to the community it serves. The project was completed within 18 months, without experiencing any delays and all within budget.
From inception, Naidu Consulting embedded sustainability into every aspect of the project. This included repurposing as much of the existing infrastructure as possible, particularly concrete substructures, thereby reducing the demand for new materials and lowering the project's carbon footprint. Key sustainability measures included: Infrastructure reuse: Existing piers and abutments were retained, repaired, and treated to extend their lifespan and reduce future maintenance requirements. Aesthetic integration: Planter boxes were incorporated into the retrofitted pier extensions, enhancing both environmental value and visual harmony with the surrounding landscape. Energy efficiency: The use of photo-luminescent materials reduced reliance on conventional lighting for night-time visibility. Low-maintenance design: Durable materials and vandal-resistant finishes were specified to ensure long- term structural performance with minimal upkeep. Corporate social investment Part of the Clientʼs social responsibility was developing small and emerging contractors from the community without any hindrances and work stoppages. This was accomplished with a social facilitation programme in place, through an Institutional and Social Development (ISD) Process. Through the ISD, there was a smooth
management of local labour and small business enterprises which incorporated MK veterans.
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24 th Best Projects Awards 2025
Best Projects 2025_130 x 180 mm Monday, November 17, 2025 1:44:10 PM
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