The long-awaited reconstruction of the Seekoei Estuary Causeway, which connects Aston Bay and Paradise Beach in Jeffreys Bay, is set to commence at the end of March 2025. The R9.3 million project, primarily funded through the Municipal Disaster Recovery Grant (MDRG), is expected to be completed by mid-August 2025.
At a public meeting on 17 March 2025, the Kouga Local Municipality informed residents about the project’s scope and the potential disruptions that may arise during construction. The causeway, which was severely damaged during the September 2023 Equinox Spring tides and gale-force winds, has been a priority for the municipality. The event was classified as a national disaster, paving the way for the municipality to secure R10.55 million in funding from the MDRG to address the storm damage and upgrade the infrastructure.
The Seekoei Estuary Causeway, originally constructed in 1973 and updated in 1994, has faced numerous challenges throughout the years. In 2014, severe storms caused the collapse of its culverts, leading to extensive repairs, including the replacement of half of its asphalt surface with concrete panels and the installation of additional culverts in 2015.
Project Scope and Key Improvements
The planned reconstruction will include several important upgrades aimed at increasing the causeway’s resilience against future storms and ensuring it can accommodate floodwaters from a 1:100-year storm event. With input from years of research and support from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the new design will also ensure that the floodline will not encroach upon nearby developments.
Key aspects of the project include:
- Replacing the existing asphalt with plain jointed concrete pavement for improved durability.
- Reinforcing concrete erosion protection on the upstream side to combat wear and tear from storm conditions.
- Installing four sets of precast portal culverts measuring 3.0m x 1.5m to facilitate better water flow.
- Repairing concrete spalling on existing culverts to maintain structural integrity.
- Conducting general repairs to concrete surfaces and Armorflex along the Seekoei River side.
- Reinstating road warning signs and streetlights for increased safety.
- Implementing wave protection measures, subject to budget availability.
The Seekoei Estuary Causeway is a vital infrastructure element for local communities, and these upgrades will enhance its ability to withstand harsh weather events and protect the surrounding areas. Residents and visitors can expect some disruptions during the construction phase, but the upgrades will ultimately result in a safer and more resilient causeway once completed.
Looking Ahead
With construction set to begin soon, the municipality urges residents and stakeholders to stay informed about the progress of the project and to be mindful of potential delays or road closures. The completion of the Seekoei Estuary Causeway reconstruction will provide much-needed resilience for Jeffreys Bay’s infrastructure and bolster the area’s preparedness for future storm events.
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