Cape Town CBD 'car-free' plan out for comment

THE City of Cape Town has invited the public to comment on its proposed CBD Mobility and Access Plan, which aims to promote walking and cycling, and create a pedestrian-friendly space.

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

Out for public comment until May 11, the plan proposes a road network plan, a schedule of routes to be partially pedestrianised, and a parking plan to support the vision of a "car-free CBD".

"The main ideas are to improve walkability in the heart of the CBD, around the public transport stations and terminus; to promote walking and cycling within the CBD by creating a decongestion zone; and to divert through-traffic onto bypass roads, with targeted safe crossings for pedestrians and cyclists. The decongestion zone would include superblocks, similar to those in Barcelona, but relevant to the local context," the City said.

The road network plan prioritises pedestrians and public transport along transit streets, and diverts through-traffic onto bypass routes.

Additionally, a parking plan will be developed to encourage the use of public transport and reduce private vehicle dominance.