The Sea Point Promenade is one of the most visited locations in Cape Town, as locals and tourists journey through the area to enjoy the breathtaking view it has to offer.
However, the City of Cape Town is now urging residents who are interested to comment on a proposal to turn the Sea Point Promenade into a pedestrian-only zone.
The City said the proposal tabled is that cyclists, skateboarders and rollerbladers utilise the sidewalk on the seaside of Beach Road.
According to the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Rob Quintas, the proposal was informed by a five-month-long investigation into how the promenade is being used, and by whom, as well as a site visit on 6 September 2021 by the City officials and other key role players.
“We have found that approximately 90% of those using the promenade are pedestrians strolling to enjoy the scenic environment, or joggers.
“A considerable number of these visitors are vulnerable people such as children and the elderly who are frail and at risk of serious injury when run over by an electric bike, an e-scooter, or even cyclists and skateboarders going at speed,” Quintas said.
Quintas went on to explain what the City is recommending is some changes to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all of those who visit this iconic stretch along the Atlantic Seaboard.
“I want to make it very clear that the proposal is that those who cycle for leisure in Sea Point can still do so, but along the sidewalk on the seaside of Beach Road from Mouille Point to the Pavilion swimming pool,” Quintas reiterated.
Also read: City of Cape Town sets aside R7 million towards Sea Point upgrades
Sea Point ward councillor Nicola Jowell further mentioned that over the past few years Subcouncil 16 has received many complaints and reports about the conflict between pedestrians and those on bicycles.
“Of concern is that some of the elderly visitors ended up in hospital after crashes because people on bicycles and e-bikes go much faster than those on feet. Some of these devices are also heavy and can cause serious injuries.
“This is why I have requested the then-Transport Directorate in January 2020 to do an investigation and to come up with possible solutions to accommodate all who visit this popular recreational facility,” Jowell adds.
Proposal
- Pedestrians should have exclusive use of the Sea Point Promenade from where it starts in Mouille Point to the Sea Point Pavilion swimming pool.
- Prams, wheelchairs and walkers are allowed.
- Cyclists on peddling bicycles, skateboarders, and rollerbladers should share the sidewalk on the seaside of Beach Road.
- No e-bikes, e-scooters, or motorised devices should be allowed on the promenade, or on the sidewalk on the seaside of Beach Road.
Meanwhile, members of the public are invited to obtain more information and submit their comments at the forthcoming Open Days:
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Tuesday, 15 March from 2 pm to 7 pm at the Sea Point Civic Centre on Main Road
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Thursday, 17 March from 2 pm to 7 pm at the Sea Point Civic Centre on Main Road
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Saturday, 26 March from 10 am to 2 pm on the grass area along the Sea Point Promenade, closest corner Rocklands Road
Comments can also be submitted by emailing [email protected] or at www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay.
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Picture: Cape{town}Etc gallery