By Charles Molele
Western Cape Government Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers has initiated a series of engagements aimed at introducing the New Provincial Roads Model to district municipalities and enhancing delivery efficiency throughout the Western Cape.
The week-long sessions commenced in the Garden Route District Municipality, where Simmers met with mayors, councillors, officials, and road workers to discuss transitioning away from the roads agency function effective April 1, 2026.
The focus was on implementing the New Provincial Roads Delivery model and its rationale.
Addressing stakeholders including Agri Western Cape and the Garden Route Ratepayers Association, Simmers said that the New Provincial Roads Delivery Model signifies a shift towards improved governance, financial accountability, and service excellence.
“The roads in our province are our pride and joy, and with this new delivery model, we aim to enhance financial oversight and significantly improve service delivery to our residents,” Simmers said.
“Ultimately, the Western Cape Government is laser focused on enabling economic growth that will create more job opportunities. Road infrastructure plays a central role in achieving this and the New Provincial Roads Delivery Model is a groundbreaking step in the right direction.”
He further underscored ongoing engagements across Western Cape districts, noting the current focus in the Cape Winelands, stating: “Today, we are proud to introduce a smarter, sustainable approach to road service delivery after years of planning and collaboration.”
During his visit to Worcester on Wednesday, Simmers also reassured road workers that no jobs would be lost under the new roads delivery model.
“After years of planning, updates, and collaboration, we are proud to unveil a smarter, more sustainable way to deliver road services across our province. I used the opportunity in Worcester today to assure our road workers again that no jobs will be lost as part of the new roads delivery model. This is a strategic shift, not a retrenchment exercise,” said Simmers.
“Roads are at the heart of opportunities, of economic growth and of job creation. And with this new model we are moving forward and shaping our future together.”
Simmers also referenced the Garden Route Financial Inspection Report, citing 18 findings and 5 key recommendations that underscored the necessity for reform.
He reiterated the model’s promise of enhanced governance, financial oversight, and service delivery, once again assuring stakeholders of job security amid the transition.
“With 18 findings and 5 key recommendations, the Garden Route Financial Inspection Report showed that reform is essential,” said Simmers.
“This New Provincial Roads Delivery Model offers a game-changing shift toward better governance, financial accountability, and excellent service delivery.”
In response to allegations of financial mismanagement within the GRDM Roads Department, Simmers announced plans to assume control and initiate a forensic investigation.
This move aligns with efforts to enhance cost efficiency and project execution under the new provincial model.
Pressure is also mounting on GRDM Mayor Andrew Stroebel to address accountability issues, including calls for changes in leadership.
Engagements with road workers in the Western Cape district municipalities, Cape Winelands. PHOTO: Supplied
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