Muizenberg may soon lose its free parking, if the City of Cape Town has its way.
The public has until Friday December 13 to submit official comments and objections through City channels.
The issue lit up social media platforms this week, with some arguing free parking at the beach meant everyone – rich and poor – could afford to visit it.
Others felt paid parking would clear out unwanted elements among the car guards.
City manager, Lungelo Mbandazayo, said public parking was meant to help the public and provide access to business opportunities.
On-street parking in central business districts should be short-term and near businesses, while free public parking was suited to the edge of the CBD or in privately operated parking garages, he said. Increasing numbers of visitors to popular tourist and recreation spots created heavy traffic, leading to less parking and a slower turnover in the available bays, he said. And with limited use of public transport, the problem was exacerbated.
The absence of “parking management” in Muizenberg had seen a rise in informal car guard activity, which he said could lead to “anti-social behaviour”.
Mr Mbandazayo said it had been decided not to impose pay parking in Muizenberg following a 2012 public participation process but now, due to the increase in demand, the City wanted to retest the public’s views on the issue.
The City proposes hiring formal marshals to collect parking fees on its behalf. Comments can be sent to parking.info@capetown.gov.za or delivered to your local library or sub-council office. Or visit www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay
The parking management questionnaire and maps will be available at www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay, at sub-council offices and libraries for the comment period.
Contact Nizaam Samaai at 021 400 2057 or parking.info@capetown.gov.za for more information.
