Phase 1 of Lower Silvermine Wetland dredging completed

14 September 2023

The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has completed phase one of its Silvermine Wetland dredging initiative. Phase two will begin in the new year, once the Western Leopard Toad (WLT) breeding season has come to an end. 

Work began on this project in April with the aim to improve inland water quality, one of the City's main water goals and objectives, which forms part of our ongoing river maintenance and programmes.

During phase one, teams cleared reeds and other invasive plants on the boundary of the wetlands and the boundary of the coffer dam; exposing all stormwater infrastructure including gabions and headwalls.

The machine work followed shortly afterwards to dredge the area (remove silt, alien vegetation and reeds) from 10m below the cable bridge, down towards the first WLT pond.

The coffer dam walls were also temporarily reinforced with an earth berm and sandbags. Depending on how this structure performs, a more permanent structure may be installed. The function of the coffer dam is to trap any sewage from flowing into the wetland or onto walkways, giving the City's Sewer Department enough time to be alerted to the situation and get to site with a honey sucker to suck out sewage from the coffer dam.

Teams also completed remedial work to fix the damage to the coffer dam and clear out reeds by 31 July 2023.

Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation, Councillor Zahid Badroodien said the area has been rejuvenated, with extensive wildlife visiting the wetlands to enjoy the space.

'Residents come to enjoy the space as well, walking their dogs or just going for a walk or a jog. The space is open, looking at peaceful views of water flowing, with the mountain in the backgrounds, birds chirping and toads clicking. 

'The importance of well-maintained inland waterways cannot be emphasised more. They are places where recreational activities should be safe to take part in – fishing, canoeing, and more – but also safe for wildlife to thrive and keep our diverse ecosystems alive. Liveable waterways and vleis also contribute to overall environmental health and keeping our residents and animals safe and healthy,' he said.

The next phase of the project is expected to start at the end of January 2024, once it is safe for the endangered WLT and their offspring.

'In the next few months we are excited to see how the space will develop. We thank residents for their understanding during this time,' said Councillor Badroodien.

End

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office