As the festive season approaches, the City of Cape Town has announced that the long-awaited R41 million upgrade to the Sea Point, Mouille Point and Granger Bay parking areas will be delayed by an additional three months, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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The delay, which follows a five-month setback earlier in the year, is due to ongoing issues with the quality of work from the contracted construction team.
Deputy mayor and mayoral committee member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews, confirmed this week that the project will not meet its original completion deadline of December 2024.
Instead, the new expected finish date has been moved to February 2025, largely because of the challenges posed by the contractor’s pace and workmanship.
Residents and local businesses have expressed their frustration with the delay, noting its negative impact on both local and international tourism. The lack of available parking in key areas has been a particular concern, with many highlighting the inconvenience caused to visitors and locals alike.
Ward Councillor Nicola Jowell, who has been closely involved with the upgrade, emphasised that progress is being made despite the delays. She noted that the project will result in improved infrastructure for people with disabilities, including enhanced walkways and ramps.
The project, which began over a year ago, includes upgrades to the beachfront and parking areas in Granger Bay, as well as additional walkways, lawn installations and the restoration of staircases. Following a five-month delay earlier this year due to contractor issues, construction work has now restarted.
‘Several key milestones have been reached, including the completion of walkways at Rothesay Place and the Winchester Mansions,’ said Councillor Jowell. ‘The contractor is also working on the Swales in the Three Anchor Bay section, which will improve drainage and protect the grass from sea water damage. The Rocklands Beach stairway is currently under construction as well.’
Despite the ongoing delays, Jowell pointed out that the project has seen some positive outcomes, especially in areas where damage from the elements had previously impacted infrastructure. The redevelopment of the Granger Bay parking lot, which had been eroded by the sea, is one of the most significant parts of the project and is progressing well, though a precise completion date is yet to be confirmed.
‘I appreciate the patience and understanding of both residents and visitors to the Promenade during this construction period, especially after the significant delay earlier this year,’ Jowell said.
The Sea Point, Fresnaye and Bantry Bay Ratepayers and Residents (SFB) Association has voiced concerns about how the delays are affecting tourism, not only within the city but also across the country. ‘The ongoing upgrade program is crucial for maintaining the Promenade to international standards, and we understand its importance,’ the association stated in response to the delay.
Jane Meyer, spokesperson for the Mouille Point Ratepayers Association (MPRA), expressed frustration on behalf of local residents, particularly those impacted by the reduced availability of parking in the Granger Bay area. ‘Our residents have been very patient, waiting for over a year for the completion of the Granger Bay parking lot. Another delay is simply unreasonable,’ Meyer stated.
Meyer added that the City should do everything in its power to ensure the parking area is completed by the end of December 2024, even if it means the contractor working beyond the usual holiday shutdown. ‘With limited parking already available in Mouille Point, it is unacceptable for this key area to remain blocked off for another tourist season,’ she concluded.
As the City works through these challenges, both residents and visitors continue to anticipate the completion of this important upgrade, which will enhance one of Cape Town’s most popular coastal areas.
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Picture: Karabo Mdluli / Unsplash
