The City of Cape Town has reopened the land-based areas of the Rietvlei section within the Table Bay Nature Reserve following significant flooding that led to a month-long closure.
The reserve’s popular trails, picnic areas, and the Old Friend's bird hide are now accessible to the public once more, offering residents and visitors the chance to enjoy recreational activities including birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking.
The closure, which took effect on July 11, was implemented after heavy rains caused widespread flooding, damaging roads, boardwalks, and key infrastructure within the reserve.
According to the City, assessments conducted by reserve staff revealed severe damage to the boardwalk leading to the Sunset bird hide and to the hide itself, necessitating the continued closure of this section.
Cape Town deputy mayor and mayoral committee member for spatial planning and environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews said in a statement that, "Our Table Bay Reserve management monitored the water levels at Rietvlei and conducted daily patrols and investigations of the recreational areas.
“I am happy to say that the situation has improved over the past weeks and that this section is now open to the public again. I want to thank all for their support and remind visitors that the Sunset hide is unfortunately inaccessible until further notice."
While the Sunset bird hide remains off-limits, the Old Friend's bird hide has been cleared of debris and is fully operational, providing birdwatchers with an alternative spot to observe the area’s diverse avian species.
The City has assured visitors that the boardwalks leading to the accessible sections have been inspected and deemed safe. In addition to birdwatching, visitors can enjoy various activities at Rietvlei, such as hiking, jogging, and picnicking along the reserve’s scenic shoreline.
Water sports, including sailing, powerboating, and canoeing, are available at the Milnerton Aquatics Club, with operating hours set from 10:00am to 04:30pm on weekdays and from 07:30am to 04:30pm on weekends.
Those interested in fishing are reminded that a freshwater fishing permit is required to cast their lines at designated sites.
The City encourages the public to take advantage of the reopened facilities while remaining mindful of the ongoing repairs to the Sunset bird hide, which will remain closed until further notice.
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