The City of Cape Town has announced plans to extend the popular St James coastal walkway along the False Bay coastline.
The City’s long-term vision is to create a continuous route stretching from Surfers Corner in Muizenberg to Clovelly Corner.
An anonymous Cape Town family has offered funding for the first phase of the extension. The family approached Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis with the proposal during 2025.
The donation will be used to construct the opening phase once the required planning, approval and consultation processes have been completed.
Engineers Begin Early Planning
The City has appointed a team of coastal engineers to prepare a high-level concept design and develop preliminary cost estimates.
The proposed design will allow officials to divide the extension into manageable sections. This means construction could move forward in phases as funding and approvals become available.
The route’s proximity to the railway line means the City must also work closely with the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa.
Initial discussions with PRASA have received positive support. However, the project must still secure detailed design approval and comply with rail safety regulations before construction can begin.
Public Participation Still Required
Hill-Lewis described the existing walkway as one of Cape Town’s most loved public spaces, used throughout the year by residents and visitors.
He said extending it beyond St James would improve public access to the coastline and allow more people to enjoy the area.
The planning process will include an environmental impact assessment and public participation.
The City must also consult national and provincial government departments, PRASA, SANParks and heritage authorities.
Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment Eddie Andrews said preparations were under way for public participation and other processes linked to the first phase.
He added that further funding opportunities could be explored to complete the broader vision.
The City has not yet announced a construction date or confirmed how much the family has donated.
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