Gill Marcus Water Treatment Works (WTW) upgrade completed

Strengthening water supply for the future

 HUMANSDORP – The much-anticipated upgrade of the Gill Marcus Water Treatment Works (WTW) in Humansdorp has recently been completed, marking a major milestone in Kouga Municipality’s efforts to ensure sustainable access to clean water.

The project, valued at nearly R5 million, introduced advanced borehole water treatment capabilities to the facility, a necessary enhancement due to the growing demand for drinkable water in the Gill Marcus area. This includes Kruisfontein, 7de Laan, Maak `n Las, Donkerhoek, Mooi Uitsig, Hopeville, Ext 391, Arcadia, Moerasrivier, Graslaagte, and Vaaldam, communities that were previously last in line to receive water from the current reticulation system.

“This upgrade is a significant achievement for our municipality,” said Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman. “We are now able to meet the increased demand for water while ensuring that our water supply system is sustainable and capable of handling future growth.”

The project, which spanned 2.5 months, also focused on diversifying water sources to enhance long-term sustainability. The existing Gill Marcus WTW was originally designed with a capacity of 1 Ml/day for treating surface water. The improved facility can now manage a combined flow of surface and borehole water, reaching up to 3.5 Ml/day.

“By modernising this essential infrastructure, we have taken an important step towards securing reliable access to clean, safe water for our communities,” added Bornman.

Scope of work

The scope of work involved extensive design, construction, and installation efforts.

Key elements included the replacement and installation of mechanical and electrical equipment, new treatment and control systems, and the renovation of existing structures.

Disused equipment was removed, and the old reservoir was repaired and upgraded to align with modern water treatment standards.

“This project will have a lasting positive impact on the lives of our residents,” said Bornman. “We are proud of the progress made and remain committed to delivering sustainable solutions that meet the needs of our communities.”