Staff Reporter|Published
Muizenberg beachgoers could soon see parts of the upgraded beachfront reopen, with the refurbishment project now 82% complete, according to Chand Consultants.
The old sandstone seawall has been demolished and beach cleaning is under way ahead of backfilling.
Work on the western parking area is also advancing, with concrete benches installed, layer works nearing completion, and kerbing, paving and street-light installation under way.
Foundations for the new central ablution facility are being cast, while refurbishment of the Shark Spotters and Adaptive Surfing buildings continues.
Internal walls are under construction, and the exterior of the Shark Spotters building is being prepared for its first coat of paint.
At Surfer’s Corner, snagging is under way ahead of the planned opening. This includes sandblasting the revetment before the area is opened to the public.
More work ahead
Upcoming work includes removing the remaining sections of the old seawall, planting indigenous seedlings on the far and eastern sides of the beach, and building the superstructure of the new ablution facility.
Work will also continue on the remaining planters and the Surfer’s Pergola, which is targeted for completion within the next month.
The first opening phase is expected to include the western parking area, access to the St James walkway, the station forecourt and beach access points.
Community questions answered
In response to questions about whether the old sandstone seawall would be reused or sent to landfill, the project team said it intended to incorporate suitable pieces into the new beachfront landscape.
Larger stones will be used in the landscaping of the new playground.
Any additional suitable pieces not used in the play area will be incorporated into the stone cladding of the foundation reinforcement wall along the PRASA wall.
The wall will also provide stone seating at the station forecourt.
The update states that the project team’s primary goal is to reopen the beach to the public in time for mid-December 2026.
Construction teams are working across the site to maximise progress ahead of completion.
Community members are invited to attend the next community liaison meeting on Tuesday, October 27, from 5.30pm to 7pm at The Lookout, Zandvlei.
The meeting will provide an opportunity to receive project updates and engage directly with the project team.