Swakop jetty facelift on course

THE renovation of Swakopmund’s much-loved jetty will be finished by February 2006.Only the 17 columns closest to the shore are being strengthened – the last 21 will be left at the mercy of the sea because it would cost too much to preserve them.

The rusting steel superstructure of the jetty is being replaced with concrete beams, and the steel crossbars will be replaced with a wooden deck. The cement columns holding up the jetty are also being reinforced with concrete to withstand the ravages of the sea.The renovated jetty will have two walkways – one for anglers and another for people who just want to stroll without stepping on bait or fishhooks.A platform will be built at the end of the renovated section, which might later house an oyster bar or coffee shop whose proceeds could be used to maintain the jetty.With proper maintenance, engineers say the jetty would be good for another 50 years.The renovations will cost about N$3,8 million and the work is being done by Bicon Namibia, Kraatz Marine and Walvis Bay Diving Services.The cement columns holding up the jetty are also being reinforced with concrete to withstand the ravages of the sea.The renovated jetty will have two walkways – one for anglers and another for people who just want to stroll without stepping on bait or fishhooks.A platform will be built at the end of the renovated section, which might later house an oyster bar or coffee shop whose proceeds could be used to maintain the jetty.With proper maintenance, engineers say the jetty would be good for another 50 years.The renovations will cost about N$3,8 million and the work is being done by Bicon Namibia, Kraatz Marine and Walvis Bay Diving Services.