PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Bitou Municipality conducted oversight visits to storm-affected beaches, walkways and infrastructure at once-pristine Blue Flag-status beach destinations last week, in anticipation of some planned recovery and restoration work.
Dune recovery and beach access
Bitou's Mayor Jessica Kamkam, Ward 2 councillor Dave Swart, Acting Municipal Manager Roderick Williams and senior municipal officials inspected Central Beach, Robberg 5, Lookout Beach, Signal Hill Viewpoint, Beachy Head and surrounding areas.
The inspection assessed the progress made since a previous visit in May, as well as the municipality's readiness for the upcoming peak holiday season.
At Lookout Beach, several residents have questioned why driftwood remains on sections of the beach and why some access points have not yet been fully restored.
Bitou's environmental management officer, Anjé Minne, said the driftwood plays an important role in the natural recovery of the beach and dune system by stabilising sand and encouraging dune formation. "Once the sand returns, vegetation begins to establish itself, further strengthening and protecting the dunes," Minne said.
Much of the driftwood, particularly on Lookout Beach, will therefore remain in place to support natural dune recovery.
Beach access was also reviewed, with Robberg 1 currently serving as the primary access route. Discussions are under way regarding a temporary access solution at Robberg 5 to provide safe public access while limiting further dune erosion.
Slipway repairs
The municipality is also addressing the coastal infrastructure damaged during the severe May and June storms. During the environmental emergency authorisation process for the damaged slipway, officials identified additional concerns, including sinkholes. A Section 24G application will be initiated to seek retrospective authorisation for the affected area.
Officials and environmental specialists are considering a set-back, sloped-embankment design instead of a vertical hard-structure wall. The proposed solution is intended to meet environmental requirements, address coastal erosion and provide greater protection against future storm damage.
The Section 24G process could take up to eight months to finalise. Kamkam and the municipal team have committed to returning in two weeks to monitor progress and ensure accountability.
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