NL Built Environment is proud to have completed a gravel road upgrade project in Delmas, South Africa. We were approached by Magabholi General Trading, a local business, to improve the condition of the road leading to their factory. The road was previously unpaved and full of potholes, causing delays and damage to vehicles. We were excited to take on this project and provide a solution that would benefit the entire community.

The pain point

The pain point that Magabholi General Trading Consulting had when they approached NL Built Environment was the need to upgrade a gravel road in Delmas, Mpumalanga, South Africa. The road was in poor condition, making it difficult for local residents to access basic services such as schools, hospitals, and markets. The road was also a major route for trucks transporting goods to and from the nearby industrial area, and the poor condition of the road was causing delays and damage to the trucks, leading to increased costs for businesses. We recognised the importance of this project for the local community and the potential economic benefits it could bring. However, the company also understood the challenges of upgrading a gravel road, including limited resources, time constraints, and environmental concerns.

The strategy

To address these pain points, we developed a comprehensive strategy that involved engaging with the local community, conducting thorough feasibility studies and environmental assessments, and collaborating with various stakeholders, including the local municipality and businesses.

The first step was to conduct a detailed feasibility study to determine the most cost-effective and sustainable approach to upgrading the road. This involved analyzing the existing road conditions, considering different design options, and estimating the costs and benefits of each option.

We also engaged with the local community to understand their needs and concerns regarding the road upgrade. The company held community meetings and conducted surveys to gather feedback and incorporate it into the project design.

One of the key challenges of upgrading a gravel road is the limited availability of resources. To address this, NL Built Environment proposed using innovative and cost-effective techniques, such as stabilising the existing gravel surface with a layer of bitumen emulsion, rather than completely rebuilding the road. This approach not only reduced costs but also minimized the impact on the environment.

The solution

The project was successfully completed within the agreed-upon timeframe and budget. The upgraded road has significantly improved the quality of life for the local community, providing better access to essential services and reducing travel time and costs for businesses. The road has also become a safer and more reliable route for trucks, resulting in reduced transportation costs for businesses and increased economic activity in the area.

The results

The collaboration between Magabholi General Trading and NL Built Environment have not only achieved the goal of upgrading a gravel road but has also brought about positive social and economic impacts for the local community. This project is a testament to the power of effective collaboration and innovative solutions in addressing pain points and achieving successful outcomes.