Kouga Local Municipality has officially commenced the development of three additional boreholes in St Francis Bay as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance water security in the region.
The project, valued at R9.55 million, is funded through the national Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) and is expected to be completed by 30 June 2025.
With a combined expected yield of 6 litres per second, the new boreholes will bring the total number of operational boreholes in St Francis Bay to eight, boosting the total yield to approximately 20 litres per second. This strategic investment will significantly enhance the town’s ability to meet demand, particularly during peak holiday seasons when consumption reaches as much as 6 megalitres per day, compared to 1.5 megalitres per day during off-peak periods.
One of the boreholes is being drilled adjacent to the municipal reservoirs in Tarragona Road, while the other two are located along the deliveries and contractors’ access road to the St Francis Links.
“Water security remains a top priority for the municipality,” said Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman. “The additional boreholes are part of a broader, long-term strategy to diversify and stabilise our water sources – ensuring we can sustainably meet the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
He emphasised that infrastructure development of this kind was critical to future-proofing Kouga’s economy and improving the quality of life for all communities.
“We are working relentlessly to reduce our dependency on external water sources and to build a resilient infrastructure network that supports growth. These boreholes are another step in that direction,” he said.
