THE eThekwini Municipality has confirmed the extension of the Virginia Beach culvert to help alleviate flooding. Ward councillor Dean Macpherson welcomed news of the project which is expected to start in the next few weeks.

“Any improvement to infrastructure in Durban North is great. The project is to help manage the stormwater network which is hampered by the build-up of sand during tidal cycle which prevents the culvert from operating as it should,” he said.

Clinton Chrystal, from the municipality’s Coastal Engineering Department, said the extension will also include the extension of the existing stormwater outfall that serves the Virginia area. ”

The culvert will be extended by approximately 50m out to sea using concrete structures similar to that already in place. The extension will place the outfall discharge point away from the shoreline to assist in the prevention of marine sediment (namely beach sand) build up in the outfall exit.

“The alleviation of this sediment problem will allow for optimal functioning of the culvert during rainfall events, which will also assist in the drainage of the Virginia Circle area and working to prevent flooding.”

Chrystal added the rehabilitation of nearby sand dunes is also set to be carried out according to the municipality’s Dune Rehabilitation Policy which is part of the general improvement of the area.

“The secondary objectives of this project include the improvement of the Virginia beachfront as a whole, so as make the area more attractive for residents,” he said.