As part of proactive maintenance efforts by the Catchment, Stormwater and River Management (CRSM) team, the City of Cape Town’s Water and Sanitation Directorate commenced with the rehabilitation of the Blinkwater Stream in Camps Bay. This project spans from the Little Glen Nature Reserve on Geneva Drive to the Theatre of the Bay on Link Street. Read more below:

The Blinkwater Stream originates from Table Mountain, where several tributary streams converge at Hely Hutchinson Avenue before forming a single stream that flows down to Camps Bay Beach, adjacent to the Tidal pool. Stretching approximately 1,46 km in length, the stream experiences significant flow rates during the winter season, attributed to multiple tributary sources from Table Mountain

The high flow rates during winter, coupled with the current condition of the concrete infrastructure, prompted the initiation of this project by CSRM. This upgrade aims to ensure that the Blinkwater Stream can accommodate the intended flow rates, thereby enhancing the sustainability of the system for years to come. Additionally, the execution of this project will serve to protect residents living near the stream.

The City has allocated R747 632,40 for the rehabilitation project, which commenced in March 2024. The project was prioritised following severe damage caused by heavy rains in September 2023, affecting surrounding homes and downstream infrastructure, notably the Blinkwater concrete-lined channel and the formation of a sinkhole on Link Street next to Theatre on the Bay. The primary cause of the damage was the displacement of large rock boulders downstream from the upstream section of the river, which compromised the stormwater system. The sinkhole and other affected municipal infrastructure were addressed in a separate project, completed earlier this year.

The current rehabilitation project aims to repair the damaged concrete-lined channel and implement preventive measures, including the installation of two silt basins upstream to trap large boulders and prevent similar future damage. The scope of work includes: 

·       Installation of 200mm UPVC pipes which will assist with the necessary stormwater diversion. 

·       Relining the concrete channel in order to stop water infiltration through the channel.

·       Construction of silt basins to trap big boulders upstream.

·       Installation of dragon teeth which will help with trapping boulders and debris without impacting the current flow rate of the river.

·       Relocation of the sewer and electrical services to prevent any future blockages.

This work aims to improve the stream's stormwater infrastructure and to prevent or limit the impact of future flood events. The rehabilitation project is scheduled to be completed by the end of May.

‘This is one of the several projects of this nature currently under way across the City, which was prioritised by the Water and Sanitation Directorate ahead of the winter season and forms part of our holistic winter readiness plan,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

Supplied by: City of Cape Town