End in sight for R430m Sir Lowry’s Pass River Upgrade project

The City of Cape Town has earmarked an end date for its multi-million-rand Sir Lowry’s Pass River Upgrade project.

In February 2023, the City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate commenced the R430-million infrastructure project in Gordon’s Bay and Strand.

Now nearing 82% completion, the project is slated to conclude at the end of 2027.

SIR LOWRY’S PASS RIVER UPGRADE PROJECT: THE DETAILS

According to the City, the goal of this project is to reduce the risk of flooding in Gordon’s Bay and surrounding areas by increasing the river’s capacity to manage stormwater. Additionally, it can help support future development in the area.

“This involves reshaping sections of the river channel and constructing specialised structures to control water flow,” per a press statement.

“It will also strengthen the City’s resilience to climate change and support future downstream developments, including the Vlakteplaas Stormwater and Environmental Upgrade planned by the City’s Human Settlements Directorate.”

BENEFITS ALREADY REAPED

The project has seen work completed along the river between the N2 highway and the Gordon’s Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Additionally, a concrete diversion between the treatment plant and St Andrews Drive Bridge has been constructed.

As a result, there have been improvements in flooding conditions observed along Dennehof Road in Gordon’s Bay and at Fairview Golf Estate. Both of these areas have been notably susceptible to flooding over the years.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR UPGRADE?

So long as everything goes according to plan, the remaining construction – including two drop structures, the final sections of the alluvial canal, and the Western and Diversion Canals – should be completed by the end of next year.

Do you think the City has set a doable deadline for this major project? Or do you believe that they need more time? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

In similar news, the upgrade of Cape Town’s Table View beachfront is scheduled for completion in mid-December just before the holiday rush.