City of Cape Town introduces strict new rules for Sea Point Promenade
The City of Cape Town is introducing stricter rules for electric mobility devices on the Sea Point Promenade, including a maximum speed limit, amid growing…
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The City of Cape Town is introducing stricter rules for electric mobility devices on the Sea Point Promenade, including a maximum speed limit, amid growing concerns over pedestrian safety in one of the city’s busiest public spaces.
The new measures, which form part of a Sea Point Promenade Management Protocol, aim to balance the growing popularity of e-scooters and e-bikes with the need to keep the promenade safe for walkers, runners, families and other visitors.
New 8 km/h speed limit for Sea Point Promenade
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of a maximum speed limit of 8 km/h for electric mobility devices in shared pedestrian areas.
The City of Cape Town said pedestrians will always have right of way, while riders will be prohibited from racing, weaving through crowds or riding recklessly.
New signage and stricter enforcement
The City said new signage explaining the rules will be installed by the end of August.
Signs will inform users about the speed limit, pedestrian priority, no-riding and dismount zones, as well as safe riding practices.
By September, the Recreation and Parks Department, together with the Public Trading Department, will begin enforcing a formal compliance process for rental operators.
The process will require operators to comply with rules covering:
Operators who fail to comply within the specified timeframe could face enforcement action.
The City is also considering limiting the number and locations of rental operators on the promenade to reduce congestion.
According to the City, the number and size of electric mobility devices using the Sea Point Promenade has increased significantly, leading to concerns about excessive speeds and conflicts with pedestrians.
Particular concern has been raised about larger, high-powered sit-on scooters carrying more than one passenger.
“The Sea Point Promenade is one of Cape Town’s most loved public spaces, but it has also become one of our busiest,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that everyone – particularly children, older persons and people with disabilities – can enjoy the Promenade safely.”
She said the promenade is designed primarily as a pedestrian recreational space and that the new rules are intended to allow responsible use of electric mobility devices without compromising public safety.