Coastal Construction Gains Momentum
A new video from Another Offshore Adventure, titled ‘Waves For Africa’, tracks steady progress on the Long Term Coastal Protection Scheme in St Francis Bay. The footage shows active construction along the beachfront, with clear visuals of the groynes taking shape.
At the same time, big shifts in sand movement are visible, indicating that the system is beginning to influence the shoreline.
Engineered Shoreline Stabilisation
As most readers know, the scheme centres on a series of groynes positioned along the coast. These structures reduce longshore drift and encourage sand accumulation. As a result, sections of the beach begin to rebuild and stabilise.
The scheme also includes sand dredging, which is currently underway with dredging from the Kromme River.
In addition, the design supports natural coastal processes, allowing the beach to form in a more consistent and resilient way over time.
Sand Build-Up And Beach Formation
Visible changes are starting to emerge along the beachfront. Certain zones are already showing improved sand retention. Consequently, the beach profile is beginning to widen in targeted areas.
Right now, the best buildup of sand is on the southern side of the diagonal groyne, and a nice wedge-shaped wave has started to form there. Local surfers have been on, getting a few insane barrels on those rare moments. The wave is strongly affected by the tide, with it getting both too low and too high, and many have missed the golden moments.
There have also been some fun waves in front of the revetment section, running towards the diagonal groyne, but with slightly less punch than the waves on the south side.
Over time, the sand buildup is expected to extend farther along the coastline, improving both access and usability all the way to Main Beach.
Long-Term Coastal Asset Protection
The Long Term Coastal Protection Scheme represents a strategic investment in the future of St Francis Bay. It supports environmental stability, protects infrastructure and enhances the value of the beachfront.
Great news