The City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has confirmed that its R430 million Sir Lowry’s Pass River Upgrade project is firmly on schedule, with a target completion date set for the end of 2027, Cape {town} Etc reports.
This ambitious infrastructure undertaking, which commenced in February 2023, is currently nearing 82% completion, with contractors diligently working to finalise the remaining tasks.
The primary aim of the project is to alleviate the risk of flooding in Gordon’s Bay and its surrounding locales by enhancing the river’s capacity to manage stormwater effectively.
This will involve reshaping segments of the river channel and installing specialised structures designed to control water flow, thereby improving the overall management of stormwater.
City highlighted that the benefits of the upgrade are already becoming apparent. Recent observations have noted significant improvements in flooding conditions along Dennehof Road in Gordon’s Bay and at Fairview Golf Estate, both of which have faced challenges with flooding in previous years.
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These enhancements can be attributed to work executed along the river between the N2 highway and the Gordon’s Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant, as well as the construction of a concrete diversion canal extending from the treatment plant to the St Andrews Drive Bridge.
Once the upgrade reaches completion, it will provide a robust stormwater management capacity, substantially mitigating flood risks to surrounding communities and infrastructure while facilitating future development in the area.
In conjunction with this project, the City’s Human Settlements Directorate is also preparing for the Vlakteplaas Stormwater and Environmental Upgrade, which relies on the foundational work being accomplished with the river renovation.
Looking ahead, the remaining tasks include the completion of two drop structures, finishing the last sections of the alluvial canal, and finalising the Western and Diversion Canals.
With the project poised for completion in late 2027, residents can expect a safer and more resilient environment equipped to handle the challenges posed by climate change.
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Also read:
R373.7 million upgrade to Sir Lowry’s Pass Road paves way for safer travel
Picture: City of Cape Town
