Following the extreme weather over the Heritage weekend, the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism has been gathering data to gain insight into the impact of the Cape storm, specifically on the tourism and hospitality sectors across the province.
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According to the department’s preliminary findings based on survey responses to date, the damage sustained by the recent floods was concentrated in the Overberg and Cape Winelands regions, with just over 60% of businesses experiencing temporary closure.
The five most affected towns are Franschhoek (11.81% respondents), Kleinmond (9.45%), Hermanus (8.66%), Betty’s Bay (7.87%) and McGregor (7.09%).
Other key findings included:
- The majority of the responses received are from private businesses (accounting for 91% of responses), while it is clear that state-owned attractions such as parks, botanical gardens, resorts and camping sites have also been affected.
- The affected properties are predominantly accommodation establishments (38% of respondents), restaurants/bars/cafes (19%), wine tourism attractions (8%), trail networks (6%) and retail stores (6%).
- Of all respondents, 44% indicated that they have insurance cover, however some pointed out that not all damage/losses sustained are covered. Additionally, 26% of respondents are unsure whether they will be covered by insurance, 29% of respondents are not covered.
- Damage has also been reported as far afield as George.
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Also read: Look: Aerial photographs capture the aftermath of the storm and floods
‘It is vital for us as the Western Cape Government to get as much information we can on the impact of the storm so that we are ready and able to prioritise needs,’ said provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities Mireille Wenger.
‘This is why I would like to encourage as many tourism and hospitality businesses to participate in the online survey, which we have kept open to ensure as many stakeholders as possible are able to give their inputs,’ added Wenger.
Tourist attractions can participate by filling out the survey here.
‘Looking ahead, we are expecting a bumper summer season, with 215 international flights per week into Cape Town International Airport from January 2024, up from 191 in the previous season,’ said Wenger.
‘To make sure that we are ready to welcome visitors across the province, I will be hosting an industry readiness event later this month, bringing together key stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality sector, to discuss key preparations for upcoming summer, including the impact of and mop up after the storm,’ she concluded.
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