Heleza Boulevard and Final Phase of Internal Infrastructure
Construction of Heleza Boulevard and the final phase of internal precinct infrastructure is well underway. The appointed contractor remains on programme, with completion anticipated in the latter half of this year. This phase will complete the internal road network and establish the direct link between Heleza Boulevard and the M27 external road, marking a key milestone in the precinct’s infrastructure delivery. We ask the public to not access the construction area due to the risk of injury.
External Road Upgrade – M27 (KZN Department of Transport Road)
The upgrade of the M27 KZN Department of Transport Road, with the inclusion of western section under SANRAL jurisdiction, has officially commenced with all final approvals, including permits for removal of vegetation within the road reserve, being received in 2025. This public-sector project is scheduled for completion before the end of the year. During construction, there will be periodic disruption to traffic flows, which is unavoidable during road widening and rehabilitation works. The teams will however endeavour to minimise disruption, wherever possible. Once completed, the upgraded road will deliver improved traffic capacity, access, and safety for all road users in the area.
Retail Development – Node 5 Centre
Construction of the Node 5 retail centre is progressing as planned. The project is scheduled for construction completion by October of 2026. This development will introduce exciting new retail amenities and services for the precinct and surrounding community.
Environmental Management and Rehabilitation
Environmental stewardship forms a core part of the M27 and Helza Road upgrade projects, with proactive measures in place to ensure that construction proceeds in a responsible and sustainable manner.
The project team is guided by our appointed ecologist, Allister Starke, whose expertise ensures full compliance with environmental legislation and that all necessary permits are in place prior to any works commencing. Under his direction, every effort is made to carry out ecological rescue operations ahead of construction activities, safeguarding flora and fauna wherever possible before the construction teams move in. His ongoing involvement provides essential guidance to the development team, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into all phases of the project.
As part of the M27 road upgrade, eight fig trees and a number of other indigenous trees and shrubs along with bulb species have been successfully transplanted into the adjacent wetland and embankments, preserving valuable indigenous vegetation. In parallel, the Sibaya Precinct conservation team has initiated an alien invasive removal programme within the forest and wetland areas east of Node 5, enhancing the ecological health of these sensitive environments.
The M27 and the entrance to eMdloti have long been characterised by a forested approach, and it is a key objective of the project that this natural character is retained. Once road construction and embankment stabilisation are complete, rehabilitation efforts will ensure that the area is restored, maintaining its green, forested identity.
Rehabilitation of the affected environmental areas will continue throughout the year, reinforcing our commitment to managing these infrastructure projects in a positive and responsible environmental manner.
Stormwater Infrastructure – Node 5
The Node 5 stormwater catchment dam and associated infrastructure were completed at the end of 2025. This marks the one of the final major components of the primary stormwater management system for Node 5, ensuring long-term stormwater control and environmental protection. The final storm water infrastructure to be completed is along Heleza boulevard, and is programmed to start shortly, which will entail the catchment and attenuation of storm water run-off along the last section of the internal road.
Further project updates will be issued as milestones are reached.
