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The Western Cape government will be investing more than R470-million on infrastructure development in Plettenberg Bay over the next three years.
The popular holiday destination has become the third fastest growing town in the country when it comes to population growth - a trend which has put a lot pressure on the town's infrastructure.
Therefore the investment, which will include 30 projects ranging from clinics and schools to streetlights and sewage systems, is a welcome relief to residents and the Bitou Municipality.
MEC of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism Alan Winde confirmed during meetings with councillors and other roleplayers during their Masisebenze visit to Bitou, that government would be investing R472-million in the area from April this year.
His spokesman Bronwynne Jooste said various projects had been identified including clinics, libraries, sewage systems, taxi routes and streetlights and would fall under a number of government departments. "The Transport and Public Works Department will be responsible for 13 projects, the Health Department five, Local Government eight Cultural Affairs three and Water Affairs one," Jooste said.
Bitou municipal spokesman James Sijama said the injection could not have come at a better time.
"It is well known that Plettenberg Bay is the fastest growing town in the province and this puts a lot of pressure on our infrastructure like roads, electricity supply and water resources."
He added that a portion of the investment would go towards building two new schools in Kranshoek and Kwanokuthula during the next financial year. "This is desperately needed in order for the town to continue providing good quality education."
He said a new pump station, electricity upgrades, additional substations and road upgrades were also on the cards.
"This financial injection will also be used to offset most of the challenges that town is facing and to make Plettenberg Bay a truly a better town for all."
Sijama said the spin-offs from the injection would also lead to more investment from the private sector, thus creating more jobs and business opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
Plettenberg Bay Business Chamber chairman and local businessman Barries Ferreira agreed that the investment would boost employment.
"Any job creation, upliftment and development, if it is sustainable, is welcome in Plettenberg Bay," Ferreira said.
"The town is the third fastest growing place in the country which places pressure on our infrastructure. Not only will this help alleviate the pressure, but the spin-offs will help boost the economy. We just hope that the contracts go to local businesses and our local labour force is used."
