Eight of Cape Town’s beaches have proudly received Blue Flag status from the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), while two others have been awarded pilot Blue Flag status.
This accolade arrives following a stringent evaluation against 33 criteria categorised into Environmental Education and Awareness, Water Quality, Environmental Management and Safety Services.
The celebrated beaches that have received the prestigious Blue Flag recognition are: Bikini Beach, Camps Bay, Clifton 4th Beach, Fish Hoek, Llandudno, Melkbosstrand, Muizenberg and Silwerstroom.
Meanwhile, pilot Blue Flag status has been accorded to Mnandi and Strandfontein.
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Universal access, efficient waste management, informative signage and the regulation of domestic animals, such as dogs on the beaches, are some of the essential criteria met.
Councillor Patricia Van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, commented on this achievement.
‘This is a wonderful accomplishment for our Recreation and Parks Department and Cape Town as a whole. As we head deeper into the summer season, our beaches and recreational facilities will be bustling with residents and visitors.’
Cape Town authorities are ensuring that their summer offerings, including lifeguard deployments and safety measures, are in top form to cater to beachgoers.
With the Blue Flag Season set to kick off on 1 December, 2023, running until 31 January, 2024, it guarantees a memorable and environmentally responsible beach experience. Camps Bay and Muizenberg will retain their Blue Flags until the end of March 2024.
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Picture: City of Cape Town