Limited window for remedial action at Diaz

Update

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Remedial measures along Diaz Beach must be taken before August to reduce the risk of further storm-related damage.

This is according to an urgent motion that was tabled and accepted during the Mossel Bay Municipality's Special Council meeting this morning 29 May.

The municipality said that it will move ahead with urgent measures to stabilise the dunes at Diaz Beach that were severely affected during strong winds and excessive rains between 11 and 13 May. The weather led to significant erosion along the coastline and “raised concerns about risks to people, property and public infrastructure”.

“The coastline is regarded as one of the community’s most important natural and economic assets, which is why the matter was treated with urgency,” it said.

Describing the steps taken by the municipality to assess and manage the damage, it said an on-site inspection was conducted on 15 May and on 19 May, a meeting with affected residents and property owners was held. That same day, access to impacted sections of the beach was restricted due to the safety risks posed by unstable dunes. The following day, the closure of the beach to the public was announced.

A few days later, on 25 May, the municipality said there was a technical engagement with engineering experts and then an oversight visit by the Mayoral Committee the day after.

It said technical assessments indicated that there is a limited window to act.

“The affected area has been categorised into high-, medium- and low-risk zones, allowing for a prioritised approach. Immediate stabilisation efforts will focus on high- and medium-risk sections, where the risk is greatest, with lower-risk areas to be addressed in future phases,” said the municipality.

The areas of risk. Graphic: Mossel Bay Municipality

The municipality further stated that the stabilisation interventions will include a combination of engineering and environmental measures. Damaged stormwater outlets will be repaired to prevent further erosion caused by uncontrolled water flow. Sand-filled geo-containers will be installed in vulnerable areas to act as a protective barrier, absorbing wave energy and reinforcing the dune system. In addition, the foredune will be reshaped to restore a more stable profile and improve resilience against wave and wind action.

It said a basic environmental assessment process will be undertaken, and coordination with relevant authorities will ensure that the intervention remains responsible and sustainable.

The estimated cost for short-term remedial work ranges between R20 million and R35 million. Council has approved funding of up to R20 million for immediate interventions, which will be sourced from the municipality’s self-insurance reserve and incorporated into the 2026/2027 budget.

It said this includes R15 million allocated to the operating Budget and R5 million to the capital Budget. Additional funding provision will be made in future budgets to address remaining areas.

“In line with legislative requirements, private property owners remain responsible for the protection of their properties. Engagements will be undertaken with affected owners.

“A full report will be submitted to council once the stabilisation work has been completed, while long-term coastal protection will be addressed through the Municipality’s Coastal Management Plan,” said the municipality.

Mayor Dirk Kotzé emphasised the broader significance of protecting the coastline: “Our beaches are central to Mossel Bay’s identity and play a vital role in supporting tourism and local economic activity. Protecting the Diaz Beach coastline is therefore not only about safeguarding infrastructure and public safety, but also about preserving one of our most valuable assets for residents and visitors alike.”

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