New Trail for Brave Hikers
The long-awaited 800m stretch reconnects the iconic 12km cliff path route, offering uninterrupted views and access from the Hermanus New Harbour to Grotto Beach. With the Cliff Path Action Group (CPAG) working tirelessly for more than eight years to join the two sections of cliff path along the seafront at Hermanus, the final results are a rewarding moment for Hermanus, as well as a satisfying moment for the members of CPAG - tourists can now walk on the 12km paved cliff path from Hermanus New Harbour to Grotto Beach. Since the building of the cliff path, which started in the 1960s, walkers were forced to divert onto Main Road for about 1km.
CPAG chairperson, Jobre Stassen, is known as the hardest-working freelance ambassador for Hermanus. She has been supported by the committee and volunteers, as well as the valuable legal input from the CPAG founding member, Adv Johan de Waal and Marius van Staden. “I also give credit to the wealth of skills we have here in Hermanus, and everyone employed to work on the path was from Hermanus,” she said.
The team of Jaco Rabe, Colan Pretorius and Ansley Arendse ensured craftsmanship over the entire 820m new path. Walker Bay Decking was responsible for the on-site concrete moulding, proving to be a challenge in the intertidal zone. Jobre also highlighted the expertise and professionalism of Principal Agent Andre van der Merwe, who previously designed, built and sourced the funds for the Hermanus Sports Centre and who has specific experience with coastal work.
The civil engineer, Eward Grobler, was praised for his work on the path's design and implementation, as well as the input from engineer Bernard Steyn. A highly technical process was involved in moulding the concrete pillars supporting the cantilevered and suspended sections of the new path. Jobre said they wanted an environmentally friendly look and feel, not a statement, and a continuation of the current path. More than 300 wire cages filled with natural stone were placed along the lower parts of the new path to prevent flooding at high tide, to add stability and to protect the path from erosion. Tourists, as well as locals, can look forward to enjoying the 12km cliff path in future.
Hardus Botha
