Steyn Momberg, the Project Director for Speed Classic Cape Town, emphasised that both the City of Cape Town and the organisers are acutely aware of the unique risks posed by the location of the event.
Acknowledging the elevated terrain and its proximity to the renowned Table Mountain National Park, they have rolled out an integrated Fire Risk Management Plan developed in collaboration with private entities and the South African National Parks (SANParks).
‘The City of Cape Town Emergency Services Team, which includes Fire and Disaster Management, will be an integral part of the operational roll-out during the week of the Speed Classic,’ Momberg stated, underscoring the commitment to providing a robust safety framework amid community concerns.
In addition to fire risk, the event has enlisted the expertise of an environmental management agency to monitor the ecological impacts associated with the Speed Classic.
A dedicated team will be on-site, ensuring that both environmental safety and community well-being are safeguarded throughout the festivities.
‘We also have a sound and noise mitigation plan in place, with independent engineers on site to monitor noise pollution,’ Momberg added. While acknowledging that the event will inevitably generate noise, he reassured residents that measures have been put in place to mitigate vehicle noise levels effectively.
The organisers aim not only to alleviate concerns among Vredehoek residents but also to foster a collaborative spirit between event organisers and the community.
As excitement builds for the upcoming Speed Classic Race scheduled for 25-26 October, some residents of Vredehoek are voicing escalating concerns over safety and environmental impacts, Cape {town} Etc reports.
With the early onset of fire season, fears have intensified regarding the event’s potential to exacerbate existing threats in the vicinity of the iconic Table Mountain National Park.
‘The fire season started earlier than we expected this year,’ a concerned local stated. ‘We have already faced regular fires in the Deer Park area, with one dangerous incident just weeks ago that threatened residential properties.’
The residents argue that the introduction of high-speed racing cars in the area, which are known to pose well-documented fire risks, only heightens these concerns.
Beyond the threat of fires, locals are alarmed by the projected high volume of spectators the event is expected to attract; estimates indicate around 2 000 visitors on Saturday and 4 000 on Sunday. ‘The influx of this many people poses a significant risk of increased arson in our residential area,’ residents contend.
Further complicating the situation are the anticipated noise levels from the race. Reports suggest that sound could reach up to 130 decibels. ‘The true facts about the dangers of 130-decibel noise levels for humans and animals are extensively documented online,’ resident representatives explained.
‘With the topography of Table Mountain amplifying this noise, it could effectively turn our community and the surrounding national park into a natural amphitheatre, impacting our daily lives and the local wildlife.’
Concern for the preservation of this UNESCO Heritage Site and its biodiversity was als0 reiterated: ‘We believe that the protection of the environment must take precedence over commercial interests.’
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Devils Peak Vredehoek Neighbourhood Watch DPV Watch did not endorse or provide assurances regarding the Speed Classic event. The neighbourhood watch shared information received to inform residents and does not approve or authorise events.
The organisers have detailed a comprehensive plan for managing the event.
Measures include:
- Road closures: Access will be limited to Jutland Avenue, with Clive Street serving as the main entrance for residents.
- Security & safety: A workforce of 333 personnel will be on duty for fire safety, traffic management, and medical support.
- Designated parking: Approved parking areas include Good Hope Seminary, CPUT, Civic Centre, and Jutland Park, with plans for Uber drop-off at Gardens Centre to minimise local congestion.
- Traffic flow: Post-event, inbound traffic via PK Drive will reopen on Monday morning, with outbound flows reinstated by Tuesday morning.
- Noise management: Residents with pets are encouraged to prepare for potential distress due to high noise levels.
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Speed, style and sophistication at the Speed Classic Cape Town
Picture: Supplied
