Namaqua West Coast Tourism has received funding from the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs – Tourism Fund to repair the historic Old Jail in Vanrhynsdorp, which was damaged during floods in 2023.
Over the past two years, the Old Jail has faced significant flooding issues, with water entering the building from the street and causing structural damage. With the support of the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT), Namaqua West Coast Tourism was able to address these problems.
Using the allocated funds, we have implemented several improvements to the Old Jail. These include:
- Accessibility: A new access ramp has been built to ensure wheelchair accessibility.
- Flood Protection: A small canal has been constructed between the road and the front entrance to divert rainwater away from the building. A pump system has been installed to remove any accumulated water.
- Structural Reinforcement: The doors have been strengthened while preserving the building’s historic character.
The Old Jail has long been a popular tourist attraction in the Vanrhynsdorp area, particularly during the flower season. Visitors are drawn to the Old Jail for its historic architecture, succulent plant collection, and valuable tourism information about the region.
After successfully renovating the Old Jail in Vanrhynsdorp, Namaqua West Coast Tourism were gifted an inverter from the Western Cape Government.
Namaqua West Coast Tourism would like to express its sincere gratitude to the Western Cape Government for its ongoing support of tourism and small businesses in the Matzikama region.
