Cape Town - The proposed plan to make Sea Point Promenade a pedestrian-only zone has been scrapped.
The City of Cape Town has concluded a preliminary assessment of the comments received on the proposal about the recreational use of the Sea Point Promenade. The majority of those who participated in this commenting process support cycling on the promenade.
Residents and interested and affected parties had the opportunity to comment on the City’s proposals from March 10 to April 10. A total of 1 953 comments were received during this time, with the majority indicating that bicycles should be allowed along this popular recreational space.
“Although the majority of the respondents support cycling on the promenade, many have raised concerns about pedestrian safety and the potential danger and risk posed by cyclists,” said Mayco member for urban mobility Rob Quintas.
“Given the preliminary outcome, I want to confirm the proposal to ban cyclists from the promenade is off the table. That said, the City will, in coming months, investigate interventions that will improve the safety of all of those using the promenade.”
He said officials were currently assessing residents’ comments and proposals.
The proposal drew mixed reactions from residents and businesses. The Weekend Argus reported in March that the City had gone ahead to obtain input from the public about the proposal despite their own senior transport planner commenting that it was a bad and dangerous idea.
Jared Chaitowitz from Up Cycles said they were relieved by the result of the public participation process.
“It was always clear to us that bicycle riding on the Sea Point Promenade is a much-loved part of Cape Town’s social fabric, and we’re over the moon that this has been confirmed.
“Now we would like to encourage the City of Cape Town to get proactive about non-motorised transport and shared public spaces.
“For the sake of the economy, the environment, social justice and public health, we’re asking our political leaders to help us make Cape Town the most bicycle-friendly city in Africa.”
The outcome of the public participation process, including proposals from the public and recommendations on the way forward, will be included in a report which is likely to be concluded by mid-year. Thereafter it will considered by the portfolio committee on urban mobility and sub-council 16.
“I want to thank all of those who made the effort to comment on the City’s proposal, and for attending the open days we hosted during this time,” said Quintas.
“The Sea Point Promenade is one of Cape Town’s most iconic recreational spaces, thus the vigorous engagements and number of comments came as no surprise.
“We welcome the interest in this topic and I also want to thank the City officials for their efforts in facilitating an inclusive public participation process.”
He said the public participation process was very successful in that it demonstrated that the City was eager and willing to test proposals with residents and that it listened to comments and feedback.
“It is very important that residents participate and comment on ideas and proposals that have an impact on their lives and living experiences.”
Weekend Argus