POLITICS

SANRAL wrong to push ahead with toll plans - Cape Town

City says agency's actions are unacceptable given imminent court challenge

SANRAL's REFUSAL TO ACKNOWLEDGE DISPUTE COULD RESULT IN RECKLESS EXPENDITURE

The City of Cape Town is deeply disappointed by SANRAL's refusal to acknowledge that there is a dispute between itself and the City over the proposed tolling of roads on the N1 and N2. Its decision to proceed with a construction schedule could result in potentially reckless expenditure with the process now subject to legal review.

"It is unacceptable that SANRAL is proceeding with a construction schedule for the second quarter of next year. Particularly in the face of the City's decision to apply to the court for an interim interdict to stop this process going ahead without adequate consultation and input from the City and affected parties. Any expenditure that SANRAL undertakes now with the project being subject to legal review could result in potentially reckless and wasteful expenditure."

"SANRAL's insistence to proceed with this project despite the City and a range of interest groups raising concerns about the impact of the tolling scheme on the city's residents and business is precisely why the City has been forced to go ahead with the court process," said Mayoral Committee Member for Transport, Roads and Stormwater, Councillor Brett Herron.

In recognition of the interests of the residents of Cape Town SANRAL should stop acting irresponsibly and allow this important process to be subjected to the legal process.

Statement issued by Cllr Brett Herron, Mayoral Committee Member for Transport, Roads and Stormwater, City of Cape Town, October 12 2011

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