Bayside Canal upgrade reaches 63% completion
27 May 2026
The City’s R104 million Bayside Canal upgrade in Milnerton is 63% complete and remains on track for completion by April 2027. The project aims to improve water quality in Rietvlei and strengthen the area’s stormwater infrastructure.
The upgrade was identified as necessary to accommodate increased stormwater flows during peak rainfall periods. The project will also help reduce litter and pollution entering Rietvlei from surrounding stormwater channels.
Last month, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien, and Ward 113 Councillor Susan van der Linde visited the site to assess progress.
The upgrade aims to improve Rietvlei’s water quality by:
- Increasing the capacity of the Bayside Canal to manage higher stormwater flows during heavy rainfall periods.
- Installing natural treatment systems to improve the quality of stormwater entering Rietvlei.
- Improving access for future maintenance and repairs
‘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. As our city grows and climate patterns become less predictable, we must invest in infrastructure that can better manage stormwater, reduce pollution entering our waterways, and protect important ecological systems such as Rietvlei.
‘It is also encouraging that the canal has performed well thus far in managing the strong flows from the recent extraordinary rainfall event, which increased Cape Town’s dam levels by nearly 20% in one week. While this rainfall was welcome for our water supply system, it also reminded us why climate-resilient infrastructure is so important.
‘Once complete, this upgrade will increase the canal’s capacity during heavy rainfall periods, introduce natural treatment systems to improve the quality of stormwater flowing into Rietvlei, and improve access for ongoing maintenance.
.jpg)
‘It is encouraging to see the project progressing well. Over the coming months, the contractor is expected to complete the bypass canal, access roads and laydown areas required for future maintenance. We thank residents for their patience while this important work continues,’ said Councillor Badroodien.
Caption 1: Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien at the Bayside Canal.
Caption 2: A site-visit to the Bayside Canal Upgrade. From left: City official, Newton Africa; Councillor Susan van der Linde; City official, Johan Van Schalkwyk; Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien; with City officials Yonela Mdlankomo and Ben De Wet.
Caption 3: An aerial view of the Bayside Canal upgrades currently under way in Table View.
End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
