Dunne Road Academic Corridor
A proposed Urban Improvement Precinct to make Dunne Road a safer, cleaner and more supportive route for learners and the people who live along it, developed in partnership with the City of uMhlathuze.
Three schools, one road
Dunne Road links Empangeni Preparatory School, Pinocchio Primary School and Empangeni High School. Every school day, more than 2,800 learners arrive on this 1.3 km stretch within a few short peak periods.
The road was built as a residential street, but it now carries the daily traffic of three schools. That brings pressure on learners, residents and the street itself: congestion at drop-off and pick-up, limited parking, and routes that could be safer at busy and dark times.
DRAC brings the schools, residents, businesses and the City together in one partnership, so they can plan and coordinate improvements to the corridor.
Planned improvements
Each improvement will be planned with the City department responsible for that part of the street.
Security cameras
Cameras along the walking routes to help prevent crime and support a quick response.
Better street lighting
Brighter lighting for dark winter mornings and evening school events.
WiFi for learning
Free, filtered internet access so learners can study without paying for data.
Recycling stations
Bins for separating waste that keep the street clean and teach recycling.
Benches and seating
Safe places for learners to wait for transport.
Accessible walkways
Even, clear pavements that are safe in all weather and easy for everyone to use.
Working with the City of uMhlathuze
DRAC is designed to support the City’s priorities and to build on its services, working within its by-laws and approval processes. The City is expected to be the lead public partner.
Common questions
What is an Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP)?
A UIP is a partnership led by the local community that works alongside the municipality. Property owners, schools and community organisations pool resources to pay for extra services in a defined area, which supplement what the municipality provides.
Is Dunne Road being closed or made private?
No. Dunne Road stays an open public street. The improvements are about making it safer and better kept for everyone who uses it.
How will DRAC work with the City of uMhlathuze?
DRAC will operate within the City’s by-laws and approval processes. The City is expected to be the lead public partner, and the precinct will add people on the ground and help fund improvements that build on the City’s services.
How can I show my support?
Visit the Dunne Road Academic Corridor Facebook page and fill in the support form. Every name helps show the City and potential partners that the community is behind the project.
Add your name to the initiative
Fill in the support form on the Dunne Road Academic Corridor Facebook page. Schools, businesses and funders interested in partnering can contact us directly.