Safety concerns grow over e-scooters on Sea Point Promenade

Concerns are being raised about the increasing number of e-scooters and bicycles on the Sea Point Promenade, with many people worried about safety.

Some say scooters are being ridden at high speeds and often by children without helmets.

Sea Point councillor Nicola Jowell says the information online that bikes and e-scooters are not permitted on the prom is incorrect.

"The promenade is available for use by walking pedestrians as well as bicycles and electric devices."

She adds that the pedestrian-only restriction was removed in 2013.

"Unfortunately, it was never reviewed at the time and just continued in perpetuity.

The City has received several complaints as the popularity of scooters has grown. 

A public survey issued by the City was released in 2020.

"We asked, 'Should we ban vehicles with wheels? Do we restrict the times when people can use things like electric devices? How do we solve this problem?"

Jowell says thousands of comments were received, with the vast majority of respondents saying all vehicles with wheels should be allowed on the promenade.

"So the conflict is increasing."

Rangers employed by the City to oversee the promenade are tasked with asking riders of bikes and scooters to observe a safe speed.

"We have a problem of speed with both of those users."

Jowell says safety is a concern and admits it is an issue the City has to consider once more.

"I don't know what the answer is."

To listen to Jowell in conversation with CapeTalk's John Maytham, use the audio player below: