Saldanha Bay: Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson and the Mayor of Saldanha Bay, Andr© Truter, have committed to working together to redevelop the St Helena Bay and Saldanha Bay small harbours. This follows an oversight visit to the harbours on Tuesday morning. Macpherson said the harbours should become economic engines for their communities, creating much-needed jobs.
According to South African Government News Agency, Macpherson and Truter have pledged to collaborate on revitalizing the harbours to benefit the local economy. The two small harbours, owned and managed by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, have over the years fallen into a state of disrepair, often attracting criminal activity and deterring investment in the surrounding communities.
Macpherson stated he would instruct departmental officials to develop a masterplan for the small harbours to ensure they contribute to the Saldanha Bay economy through fishing and tourism development. He highlighted the V and A Waterfront as a prime example of how harbours can be used to attract investment and create jobs, expressing a belief that similar success can be achieved in St Helena Bay and Saldanha Bay.
Truter welcomed the Minister’s commitment, noting the engagement was positive and demonstrated a focus on action and timelines. He expressed eagerness to embark on this redevelopment journey alongside the Minister and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.