The Western Cape Provincial Government has announced the reduction of the 80km/h speed limit on a section of the R44 through Betty’s Bay in the Overstrand Municipality in the Western Cape.
The Western Cape Department of Infrastructure received a request to lower the speed limit to 60km/h on the commercial section of the roadway known as “The Hub” and at the entrance to the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens to enhance safety.
In response, an investigation was initiated to evaluate the situation.
Viable
At a meeting with local councillors and stakeholders, Western Cape MEC for Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, said the investigation by the department had shown that a decrease in the speed limit on this section of the road was viable.
“I am pleased that my department and the Department of Mobility can work together to respond to the concerns of our communities. The new speed limit sign boards will be installed in due course.”
However, Simmers warned that the posted speed limit was not a target or endorsed safe speed, but rather the maximum legal speed, and, as on all roads, it remained the responsibility of motorists to keep to the legal limit.
Western Cape MEC for Mobility, Isaac Sileku, said the safety of all road users was a priority for the provincial government.
“By reducing the speed limit through this busy section, we are not only protecting lives but also supporting safer access for both residents and tourists. This is a perfect example of how Departments of Infrastructure and Mobility work hand,” said Sileku.
Growing populations
Meanwhile, Simmers said as smaller towns in the Western Cape continue to expand, the road networks need to accommodate growing populations.
“Tourism also plays an important role in these local economies and contributes to job creation, and as the sector continues to grow, it is important to ensure that roads in the Western Cape are safe, accessible, and enable a growing economy that creates job opportunities for all.”
Do you believe South Africa’s motorists really pay attention to speed limits?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
