Milnerton Lagoon: Pioneering Sustainable Water Management Solutions

4 mins read
sustainable water management milnerton lagoon

Milnerton Lagoon is being improved to boost water quality and ecological health, with the City of Cape Town committed to sustainable water management. Projects such as the Koeberg Pump Station’s maintenance, Ryan’s Pond’s contamination prevention, and the Montague Drive Sewer Upgrade Project’s progress demonstrate this commitment. Plans to enhance the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works and address sediment and organic matter build-up also showcase the city’s dedication to environmental responsibility. These ongoing improvements and future plans show a promising outlook for the future of this environmental treasure.

Milnerton Lagoon is undergoing improvements to elevate water quality and ecological health. The City of Cape Town is committed to sustainable water management, exemplified by the Koeberg Pump Station’s maintenance, Ryan’s Pond’s contamination prevention, and the Montague Drive Sewer Upgrade Project’s progress. Plans to enhance the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works and address sediment and organic matter build-up also demonstrate this commitment. The Milnerton Lagoon serves as an example of the potential outcome of prioritizing environmental responsibility.

Section 1: Boosting Water Quality and Ecosystem Health

Abrupt advancements are set in motion to elevate both water quality and the overall ecological health of the renowned Milnerton Lagoon. The potential of this strategic move was echoed recently in a quarterly stakeholder engagement discussion. City representatives highlighted the importance of critical infrastructure projects, regular maintenance, and potential plans, encompassing various dredging strategies. This promise exhibits the City’s continuous commitment to ecologically sound water management.

Section 2: The Koeberg Pump Station: A Symbol of Sustainable Commitment

The [Koeberg Pump Station](https://capetown.today/city-of-cape-town-upgrades-sewer-pump-stations/) (PS) reflects this unwavering commitment, where maintenance isn’t just a necessity, but an integral part of the day-to-day operations. Regular manual cleaning ensures that debris is effectively eliminated, while daily inspections ensure the pumps’ efficient operation. Additionally, continuous monitoring of wet well levels affirms the full operational status of all pumps, including the Pioneer pump.

The Koeberg PS has seen recent improvements that have broadened its operational capabilities. The addition of manual screens, the replacement of faulty valves, and a new alarm system collectively optimize the station’s functionality. The inclusion of an additional mobile pump and four new pump impellers further enhance this. Looking ahead, the planned construction of a new pump station, an emergency overflow storage pond, and two 900mm parallel rising mains are set to increase Koeberg PS’s potential even further.

Section 3: Ryan’s Pond and Water Demand Management

Ryan’s Pond, another essential site, plays a key role in warding off contamination in the Diep River and Milnerton Lagoon. Two stationary mobile pumps enable this process, effectively reducing environmental pollution.

Meanwhile, Water Demand Management investigations in Joe Slovo and Phoenix Park have revealed inconsistencies between water demand and sewage flow rates. Actions such as valve checks, repairs, and zero-pressure tests have effectively stabilized the water pressure in Joe Slovo. This stability, combined with reduced water pressure, curtails water leaks, subsequently reducing the volume of polluted storm water that needs to be diverted to pump stations.

Section 4: Montague Drive Sewer Upgrade Project

The Montague Drive bulk sewer upgrade project is currently at a completion rate of 50% for the first phase. Progress is evident in various components like the sand trap, screening facility, and micro-tunneling. The subsequent phase, currently in the design process, is scheduled for construction from August 2025 to December 2026.

Section 5: Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works

The Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTW) have faced challenges that have required comprehensive equipment and process control. Over 30,000 cubic meters of solids, grit, sand, and other inorganic materials have been extracted from their Primary Settling Tanks (PSTs), a process that takes approximately eight weeks for a single PST.

Fortunately, a series of future plans are in line to enhance the effluent quality. These plans include mechanical, electrical, and civil project components, ultrafiltration works, dewatering, and the renovation of old sludge storage ponds. The introduction of a new dewatering system, an ultrafiltration building, raw sewage inlet works, and a Membrane Bioreactor are also in the pipeline.

Section 6: Addressing Sediment and Organic Matter Build-Up

In order to tackle the accumulation of sediment and organic matter in the lower Milnerton Lagoon, the City has investigated multiple dredging options. The selected approach involves dredging a primary channel and eliminating organic materials from the sand with cyclone technology. This method will redeposit clean sand into the lagoon while disposing of approximately 600 cubic meters of organics and sediment. The project, which is expected to cost about R70 million and span 11 months, is pending environmental authorization.

The Milnerton Lagoon serves as a brilliant illustration of the potential outcome of prioritizing environmental responsibility. The ongoing improvements and upcoming plans reinforce the City’s commitment to sustainable water management, showing a promising outlook for the future of this environmental treasure.

1. What improvements are being made to Milnerton Lagoon?

Milnerton Lagoon is undergoing improvements to boost water quality and ecological health, with plans to enhance the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works and address sediment and organic matter build-up.

2. What is the Koeberg Pump Station and how does it reflect the City’s sustainable commitment?

The Koeberg Pump Station is a symbol of sustainable commitment, where maintenance is integral to day-to-day operations. Regular manual cleaning, daily inspections, and continuous monitoring of wet well levels ensure efficient operation. Recent improvements include the addition of manual screens, replacement of faulty valves, and a new alarm system.

3. How does Ryan’s Pond prevent contamination in the Diep River and Milnerton Lagoon?

Ryan’s Pond plays a key role in preventing contamination in the Diep River and Milnerton Lagoon, with two stationary mobile pumps effectively reducing environmental pollution. Water Demand Management investigations in Joe Slovo and Phoenix Park have also stabilized water pressure, reducing the volume of polluted storm water that needs to be diverted to pump stations.

4. What is the progress of the Montague Drive Sewer Upgrade Project?

Currently at a completion rate of 50% for the first phase, the Montague Drive Sewer Upgrade Project shows progress in various components like the sand trap, screening facility, and micro-tunneling. The subsequent phase is scheduled for construction from August 2025 to December 2026.

5. How is the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works being enhanced?

Future plans for the Potsdam Wastewater Treatment Works include mechanical, electrical, and civil project components, ultrafiltration works, dewatering, and the renovation of old sludge storage ponds. The introduction of a new dewatering system, an ultrafiltration building, raw sewage inlet works, and a Membrane Bioreactor are also in the pipeline.

6. How is sediment and organic matter build-up being addressed in Milnerton Lagoon?

Multiple dredging options have been investigated to tackle the accumulation of sediment and organic matter in the lower Milnerton Lagoon. The selected approach involves dredging a primary channel and eliminating organic materials from the sand with cyclone technology. The project is pending environmental authorization and is expected to cost about R70 million and span 11 months.

Previous Story

A Forward-Thinking Strategy in Urban Waste Management: The Cape Town Example

Next Story

Shaping the Future of Railways in Southern Africa: Insights from the 13th SARA Rail International Conference and Exhibition

Latest from Blog

The Enigmatic Tale of Baanksy: Franschhoek’s Artistic Sheep

Baanksy, the famous painting sheep from Franschhoek, has vanished, leaving a trail of mystery and sadness behind. Celebrated for his unique talent, he captured hearts around the globe before disappearing on February 1, 2025. A huge reward of R1.2 million is now being offered for any clues to find him, underscoring how much he means to the Farm Sanctuary SA. His story, alongside his artistic legacy, highlights the incredible bond between animals and humans, sparking a movement that encourages kindness and understanding toward all creatures. As the search goes on, the hope remains strong for Baanksy’s safe return to his beloved studio.

Navigating Change: Cape Town’s New Short-Term Rental Regulations

Cape Town is making big changes to how shortterm rentals, like those on Airbnb, operate in the city. New rules will require property owners to register and pay taxes, aiming to protect the community and address housing shortages. This move is inspired by other cities worldwide and hopes to link shortterm rentals more closely to traditional tourism. With these changes, property owners may have to rethink their rental strategies, ensuring that the city remains a beautiful place for both residents and visitors. Cape Town is taking steps to balance its charm and tourist appeal with the needs of its local community.

Enhancing Police Wellness in South Africa: A Collaborative Approach

In South Africa, police wellness is being boosted through exciting workshops where different experts come together to tackle tough challenges facing officers. Recently, a vibrant gathering at the Birchwood Hotel brought together police leaders, health officials, and community members to share ideas and find better ways to support the police force. They discussed important topics like mental health, accountability, and the need for better working conditions. Everyone left feeling hopeful and ready to make real changes that will not only help the police but also create a safer and happier South Africa for all.

South Africa’s Pursuit of Progress: Reflecting on Minister Thembi Simelane’s Address

In her powerful speech, Minister Thembi Simelane shines a light on South Africa’s journey toward a fairer future. She talks about fixing old wrongs from the past, like land dispossession, and emphasizes the importance of providing homes for all, especially for firsttime buyers and students. Simelane highlights the government’s plans to build more houses and support military veterans, showing a commitment to empower every community. With a strong focus on justice and growth, her words inspire hope for a brighter tomorrow in South Africa.

A Coastal Gem’s New Era: Hermanus and the South African Whale Centre

Hermanus, a beautiful coastal town in South Africa, is about to shine even brighter with the opening of the South African Whale Centre (SAWC). This exciting new place will focus on marine conservation and education, helping people understand and care for the ocean and its creatures. Visitors will get to experience whales like never before, with cool technology that makes learning fun. The centre aims to inspire everyone to protect our marine life while boosting tourism and the local economy. With this new chapter, Hermanus is ready to lead the way in caring for the ocean’s wonders!