A coastal development project which forms part of a R116-million facelift planned for Port Elizabeth's coast is on track.

The project, which includes the construction of a walkway and cycle path stretching from St George's Strand in the east to Flat Rock in the west, is among the few priority Vision 2020 projects. It is even expected to extend to Sardinia Bay.

During a presentation to the recreation and cultural services committee yesterday, Donald McGillivray of consultants Afri-Coast Engineers, described the project as "massive", adding that it could be completed by 2020.

"It has a major and significant impact to Nelson Mandela Bay. It's an exciting project," said McGillivray. He said its major priorities were the provision of a clean environment - clean water and clean beaches - easy access to the beaches for all communities and, in a safe and secure environment.

The project has been divided into four zones for developmental purposes as it cannot be tackled all in one go.

Zone One is the St Georges Strand where work has already started in upgrading and improving facilities at Wells Estate which already boasts Blue Flag status. Blue Flag status is an international award given to a beach with clean water and adequate facilities for bathers and swimmers.

Development of the walkway and the cycle path has already started. It will pass through the Swartkops River Mouth to New Brighton Beach, pass through the Deal Party coastline and then to Kings Beach, Hobie Beach, Pollok Beach and Flat Rock.

McGillivray said Wells Estate beach had great potential, adding it would serve about 300 000 people from Motherwell and new settlements which the council had developed recently in that area.

"We want to make it safe for recreational purposes. The cycle path can also be used for sporting, recreational and even for the Ironman event. We are improving the beaches and uplifting the environment."

He said the most demanding aspect would be the New Brighton Beach to the Deal Party coastline, the area around Algorax and the Fishwater Flats water treatment works.

McGillivray said the coastline in this area was degraded, and needed massive upgrading. This will involve discussions with stakeholders to deal with the stench coming from the water treatment works and the coal emissions from Algorax.

He said this development would also be linked to the 2010 World Cup stadium, adding that companies like Transnet and National Ports Authority would have to be brought on board.

Dune restoration is already taking place at King's and Pollock beaches. There is funding in the municipal budget for the next three years to implement the project.

"It is a high priority project, but will have to be taken in stages. It can go up to 2020 as it is likely to extend to Sardinia Bay," said McGillivray.

He said the aesthetics would be greatly improved, with extra lighting. Close circuit cameras would be installed and operated from a central control room at the South End Fire Station.

About 15 projects have been identified in the municipality's integrated beachfront development plan.