Residents across the Overstrand are encouraged to review and comment on the Municipality’s Water Services Development Plan (WSDP), a key document that outlines how water and sanitation services will be managed and expanded to meet growing demand in the years ahead.
With water security becoming increasingly important, the plan places strong emphasis on long-term sustainability, improved infrastructure, and responsible water use by all.
Major Investments in Water and Sanitation
Overstrand Municipality has identified a range of priority projects for the period up to 2029, including:
• Expansion of wellfields in Hermanus
• New reservoirs in Sandbaai, Onrus River and Betty’s Bay
• Upgrades to water treatment plants and pipe replacements
• A proposed seawater desalination scheme for the Greater Hermanus area
• Sewage infrastructure, upgrading and refurbishment
An estimated R282 million has been allocated to water and sanitation services projects, with R92 million of funding already secured.
What This Means for Your Town
The plan highlights how water supply and future demand will affect different areas:
• Greater Hermanus: Demand is growing rapidly, with water shortages expected within the next few years if no additional water sources are developed.
New sources such as desalination and groundwater expansion are being prioritised.
One of the key projects being explored is a seawater desalination plant for the Greater Hermanus area. This means turning seawater into safe drinking water. With the town growing and rainfall becoming less predictable, current water sources may not be enough in the future.
Desalination offers a more reliable, weather-independent supply, helping to ensure that residents have access to water even during dry periods. While it is a costly option, it is an important step towards securing water for the future.
• Kleinmond & Stanford: Current water supply is stable and expected to meet future demand beyond 2035 with proper management.
• Gansbaai: Water supply is sufficient in the medium term, but additional sources will be needed around 2034-2038.
• Pearly Beach: Supply is currently stable, but groundwater development is being explored to improve water security.
• Baardskeerdersbos & Buffeljagsbaai: Existing groundwater sources are sufficient for long-term needs.
• Betty’s Bay, Pringle Bay & Rooi Els: Current system can support future demand, with additional options available if needed.
Read the document here:
Residents can access the Water Services Development Plan on the municipal website under “Documents open for public comment” or by visiting www.overstrand.gov.za and navigating to Documents > Strategies, Plans and Frameworks > Water Services Development Plan.
Comments close on 30 April 2026.
Written comments can be submitted to hblignaut@overstrand.gov.za
