Entering the bustling coastal town of Ballito on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, pedestrians are welcomed by the recently renovated walkways.

A total of 3 600 m² Burgundy pavers, from Corobrik, have been used to construct the sidewalks and islands along both sides of Ballito Drive, extending from Greenfields Road near the new N2 interchange, all the way to the M4 intersection.

Dave Duke, General Manager of Urban and Social Development Africa Division for SMEC South Africa, said the project, which started in August 2014 and completed on 18 June this year, was essential for the area.

“Ballito has experienced phenomenal growth in recent years and required a major road and sidewalks upgrade to provide for increased traffic and ensure pedestrian safety,” explained Duke.

Improving aesthetics

“The transformation of the old low-volume, rural-type access road into a new, urban environment required improved aesthetics.”

He said that, it was for this reason, that Corobrik’s Burgundy pavers were selected.

“They add rich colour and contrast to create a quality urban environment.”

Duke said that a herringbone pattern was selected because of its increased interlocking strength.

“This ensures the movement of the pavers is limited and the risk of pavers shifting or lifting is reduced,” he said.

Depending on future urban design, upgrades and budget availability, Duke said the paving could be extended into Ballito.

Enduring high levels of foot traffic

Corobrik’s Director of sales Allin Dangers said the clay pavers were the perfect choice for an outside area that will have to endure high levels of foot traffic.

“The pavers, which undergo an intense firing process, offer outstanding durability while retaining colour over time,” said Dangers.

“As shown in the many inner city and urban landscape upgrades across South Africa, the colourfast hues of fired clay provide the propensity to uplift urban environments in a stylish yet unobtrusive manner.”

He said clay pavers are also a safe choice as they are smooth so easy to walk on and skid resistant in wet weather.