Weekend N3 Closure Alert: Here Are the Best Alternative Routes to Avoid Delays

If you’re planning to travel on the N3 highway this weekend, you’ll need to rethink your route. The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) has confirmed that full closures will be in effect between the Lynnfield and Market Road interchanges to allow for the demolition of the Ashburton Bridge.

Originally planned for 9 to 12 May, the demolition was postponed and is now scheduled to take place from Friday, 16 May to Sunday, 18 May 2025. This means that both northbound and southbound lanes of the N3 will be inaccessible during this period.

Full N3 Closure Times

According to Sanral’s Provincial Specialist Geometrics Engineer, Jason Lowe, the closures will begin at 8 PM on Friday, 16 May, and will continue through the weekend, ending at 5 AM on Sunday, 18 May.

“The traffic accommodation team, with the assistance of the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), will manage and monitor the diversion of traffic to the R103,” said Lowe.

Alternative Routes for Motorists

Sanral has urged road users to plan ahead and use the following detour routes during the demolition:

• Northbound Traffic: Will be diverted off the N3 at the Lynnfield off-ramp, onto the R103, and back onto the N3 at Market Road.

• Southbound Traffic: Will be diverted off the N3 at Market Road, onto the R103, and rejoin the highway at Lynnfield.

• Pope Elis Drive: Only accessible to local residents via a stop-and-go control system.

Signage will be installed along the R103, and flag personnel will assist in directing traffic to ensure smoother flow.

Important Notices

Sanral has also cautioned that closure times may be adjusted due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. Motorists are encouraged to:

• Remain patient

• Obey all signage

• Avoid peak travel times if possible

“This is an unavoidable consequence of road improvements,” added Lowe. “Efforts have been made to minimise disruption by restricting the closure to low-traffic hours.”

Sanral will continue to provide updates via official channels and urges all travellers to monitor local traffic bulletins. The agency also extended its apologies for any inconvenience caused.

Whether you’re commuting or heading out for a weekend trip, it’s best to plan ahead, use the R103 detour, and expect some delays. The temporary pain will ultimately lead to long-term improvements on one of South Africa’s busiest highways.

{Source: The Citizen}

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