Getting to and from the Point is about to get easier
In an effort to provide easier and safer accessibility to the Point area, the eThekwini Municipality will be piloting the conversion of Shepstone Street between Dr Langalibalele Dube Street and Bell Street from one-way to two-way traffic flow between 5 May 2025 and 5 November 2025.
Shepstone Street currently has three lanes moving in a northward direction and one cycling lane. The conversion will allow traffic to move in opposite directions on two-lanes each way.
The new two-way traffic flow will allow vehicles on the adjacent streets (Bay Terrace, Hospital Road and South Beach Avenue) to join Shepstone Street in both south and north directions. Motorists will not be able to travel on Shepstone Street in a southward direction beyond the Bell Street intersection from Shepstone Street they will rejoin Mahatma Gandhi Street via Bell Street.
EThekwini Transport Authority acting Head, Nelisiwe Zama, explained that the conversion is a trial that will be carried out for six months. “During the trial period the project team will study and assess viability of Shepstone Street running on two-way traffic on a permanent basis. As we pilot this project, we ask motorists to be cautious when driving and follow the signage. Pedestrians are urged to safely use the dedicated crossing areas during this conversion.”
Various work will be carried out to accommodate the new contraflow, this includes installation of new traffic signals at, and road signage to guide motorists through the new road configuration. Additionally, the curb barriers between the cycling lane and normal traffic lanes will be removed and the road surface reinstated.
Zama concluded, “The conversion of Shepstone Street aligns with the multi billion rand planned mixed-use development for the Point area. The development includes upmarket residential and commercial developments and leisure facilities, and the conversion project will enhance accessibility ensuring easy and improved access to the area.”
