Kuruman’s rapid population growth has placed increasing pressure on its infrastructure, and plans are now in motion to upgrade the town’s bus rank into a modern two-storey facility. The new development, set near the bustling shopping precinct, is designed to handle the rising demand for public transport and ease congestion in the central business district.
During the construction phase, a temporary rank will be set up at the ABSA Plain—between ABSA and Standard Bank—to ensure commuters are not left stranded. The revamp is projected to take between 18 and 24 months at an estimated cost of R85 million.
So far, Kumba Iron Ore Mine has committed R63 million to the initiative, leaving a funding gap of R22 million. Project stakeholders are optimistic that additional support from other mines and government will bridge the shortfall, strengthening the spirit of public-private partnership that underpins such initiatives.
Upon completion, the upgraded rank will house taxis and buses in a modernised hub expected to enhance both commuter experience and the town’s overall appeal. Sources close to the project confirm that although final structural arrangements are still under review, groundbreaking is imminent.
In parallel, town planners are also preparing to tackle another challenge: rerouting heavy haulage trucks away from the business centre. A dedicated bypass road is on the cards, starting just past the former Eldorado Hotel, crossing Kimberley Road through the industrial site, past the casino, and reconnecting with the R31 towards the Hotazel mining belt.
These developments reflect the foresight of Kuruman’s planners, who are determined to address mounting traffic congestion, road damage, and disruptions to business flow in the CBD. Beyond improving functionality, the projects aim to position Kuruman as an attractive hub for both local and foreign investment.
A concept design of the planned Kuruman bus rank provides a glimpse into the town’s new face of progress.
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