After two years of disruption caused by criminal vandalism, the traffic lights located at the crucial intersection linking Perseverance Industrial Area to the major routes between Kariega and Despatch has finally been repaired. Its restoration was made possible through a successful collaboration between the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality and the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber’s Perseverance Geographic Cluster.
The Perseverance Cluster, which operates as the Perseverance Business Association, was the first geographic cluster to be established under the banner of the Business Chamber and the number has now grown to 11 geographic clusters operating across the Metro.
The traffic lights, which serves as a key traffic control point for the industrial area, one of the Metro’s main economic hubs, had been out of service since vandals repeatedly targeted it. The broken signal caused significant safety concerns and traffic delays for both businesses and residents, negatively impacting the flow of goods and services in the region.
However, thanks to the power of public-private partnerships, the traffic lights are now operational again. The association recognised the importance of maintaining smooth traffic flow and installed a camera system aimed at monitoring and deterring further vandalism.
The association, working alongside the municipality, have committed to regular monitoring of the intersection and have implemented additional security measures to prevent future incidents of vandalism. This partnership underscores the importance of cooperation between the public sector and private enterprises in addressing challenges that affect both local economies and public safety. It further highlights how local businesses are stepping up to help protect vital infrastructure.
“The restoration of this traffic light is a testament to what can be achieved when public and private entities come together with a shared goal. By working collaboratively, we are not only solving an immediate problem but also demonstrating a model of cooperation that can be applied to other areas of service delivery in our region,” said Siyolo Dick, chairperson of the Perseverance Business Association.
“This is a major win for everyone who relies on this route for work and trade. With this partnership, we’ve shown that community engagement and private sector support can play a pivotal role in addressing public service challenges.”
Dick said the traffic lights are now back in full operation, helping to improve the efficiency of traffic flow, reduce congestion and ensure safer travel for thousands of daily commuters using this route.
“The collaborative effort is a prime example of how communities, businesses and government can join forces to enhance service delivery and improve quality of life for all. Our aim as PBA is to continue creating an enabling environment for the businesses within this zone and ultimately create self-sufficiency which will add value for all the stakeholders.”
Perseverance is one of the oldest industrial zones in the Metro and has a competitive advantage of housing world-class businesses and brands, who employ over 10 000 people within an area that is equidistant to customer locations and harbours. It contributes 5% per month of the total municipal rates paid in the metro.
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