The collapsed slipway. Photos: Provided.

The collapsed slipway at Big Bay was removed on 7 July.

According to Alderman Belinda Walker, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Special Projects, a joint operation between Sport, Recreation and Amenities, Solid Waste and Transport for Cape Town was initiated and yesterday, 7 July 2016, these departments worked to remove the broken infrastructure, including the ramp and bollards that had collapsed.”

Stormy seas to blame
The recent storm surge – with its high seas and subsequent lowering of the beach level – caused the ramp to collapse and become a hazard to the public. The removal of the ramp does not affect boating enthusiast since it was not accessible to them; it provided access to the beach for emergency services and the Big Bay Lifesaving Club.

Rubble can be seen
Repairs to the ramp will form part of a project aimed at protecting the artificial dune field from further storm surge. In the interim, emergency services can use the access ramp at Small Bay. The nearest public boat launch site is in Table View, opposite Doodles. Walker says that the erosion has caused another problem to surface. Rubble buried in the dunes has been exposed and must be removed.