The City of Cape Town’s R104 million Bayside Canal upgrade in Table View has reached 63% completion and remains on schedule for completion by April 2027.
The project is aimed at improving stormwater management in the area while also enhancing water quality in Rietvlei, a key ecological system in the northern suburbs.
City officials say the upgrade was necessary to cope with increasing stormwater volumes during heavy rainfall events and to reduce pollution flowing into surrounding waterways.
Improving stormwater flow and water quality
The project focuses on strengthening the canal’s ability to manage peak flows and reducing litter and contaminants entering Rietvlei from surrounding drainage systems.
Once complete, the upgraded canal will include natural treatment systems designed to improve stormwater quality before it enters the wetland area.
Improved access routes are also being constructed to allow for easier long-term maintenance and repairs.
City highlights climate resilience
Mayco member for water and sanitation Zahid Badroodien said the project forms part of Cape Town’s broader effort to build climate-resilient infrastructure.
“The Bayside Canal upgrade is more than a local infrastructure project; it forms part of the City’s broader commitment to building a more resilient and water-sensitive Cape Town,” he said.
He added that recent heavy rainfall events demonstrated the importance of stronger infrastructure, noting that dam levels increased significantly in a short period.
“The canal has performed well thus far in managing the strong flows from the recent extraordinary rainfall event,” Badroodien said.
Over the coming months, the contractor is expected to complete the bypass canal, access roads and laydown areas needed for ongoing maintenance and future servicing.
The City has thanked residents for their patience as construction continues in the area.
Residents say canal project is taking too long
Despite progress, some residents have raised concerns about the pace of the upgrade, saying the project is taking too long to complete.
Local resident Karen Jacobs said: “It feels like this has been going on forever. While we understand the importance, the delays are frustrating for people living in the area.”
Another resident, Michael Petersen, said: “The work is important, but the disruption has been ongoing for a long time now. We just hope it speeds up soon.”
Lerato Mbeki, Milnerton resident, said: “We’ve been hearing about this upgrade for years.
“It’s good to see progress, but it still feels like it’s taking too long to finish.”
