Work to remove the build-up of sand on Hout Bay Beach has begun. The City of Cape Town has started to establish the operational work site and loading and removal of sand will take place from Monday, 12 August 2013.
The parking area in front of the dune by the two law enforcement offices has become an operational work area and is closed to the public until work is completed. Heavy machinery will be used and you are requested to stay clear of the area for your own safety.
The planned works are likely to take place over at least two months. The first phase, which will run for at least three weeks, will consist of loading sand onto trucks to be transported to a pre-selected site above Sandy Bay. This is being undertaken in conjunction with Table Mountain National Park, with the possibility of recreating the wind-blown sand transport system to Sandy Bay.
The second phase of the work is likely to begin in early September and will consist of grading and re-shaping parts of the beach itself, by pushing built-up sand back towards the coastal active zone and, in some cases, pushing sand back into the water. Announcements will be made closer to the time to ensure your safety on the beach while graders are working.
To undertake this project, the City received environmental authorisation from the Provincial Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, and has a permit from the Table Mountain National Park to deposit sand above Sandy Bay. All works will be done in accordance with the approved Maintenance Management Plan and the National Park permit.
The build-up of sand on Hout Bay Beach poses a risk to key infrastructure such as the electricity sub-station, roads, private property, and has a negative impact on the Hout Bay environment. It is essential that the City reduce the sand bulk before the summer south-easter winds set in.
The City apologises in advance for any inconvenience caused by the work. Regular updates will be provided to the community as needed.
