Wind netting is being implemented as part of the first phase of the Hout Bay dune rehabilitation project.
The rejuvenation plan seeks to address the decades-long dune issue, commonly referred to as “Frankenstein” by locals.
Ward councillor Roberto Quintas, who has been driving the project even before being appointed to the position last August, said it would assist in shaping the dune system and mitigating the worst of the wind-blown sand, which frequently spills over onto Harbour Road.
“The phenomenon gets worse in summer. The south-east wind is the source of the sand, bringing it from the Chapman’s side of the beach. The nets are being implemented on section sof the dune where reshaping by bulldozers has been completed.” he said.
The netting will hopefully “catch” the sand, preventing it from reaching nearby infrastructure.
“We are hoping to begin a process of salt-water irrigation of the dune, which will also make the dunes compact in the summer months. Maron grass, a non-invasive species, will then be introduced to clump the dune sand together.
This will hold them in place and we can begin a process of vegetating the dunes. This will be done in time for the winter rains.”
Mr Quintas has committed a large proportion of his ward allocation funds to the refurbishment, and is aiming to “reclaim” the parking space on the Mariner’s Wharf side of the beach.
“This would appeal to tourists, and will make Hout Bay’s beachfront one that can be enjoyed by all its residents.
“Once this area has been cleared of sand, we can begin paving and look at introducing mosaics and additional lighting.”
Mr Quintas appealed to the public not to interfere with the netting operation, to be vigilant and report incidents of vandalism to the on-site security, located at the corner of Princess Avenue and Harbour Road.
