Chapman's Peak Drive is rich in natural resources and Alien Vegetation Species are resource seekers. These plants disrupt our delicate eco-systems and steal our underground water. These plants can expand rapidly and seek to destroy our natural fynbos .

SANParks in conjunction with Working on Fire will be sending out a specialized team to clear these aliens using ropes and technology to chop and clear the slopes of Chapman's Peak Drive and protect them from the alien threat.  Whilst they are at work, the drive below will be encounter falling debris, making it dangerous for passage.

The SANParks  Alien  Vegetation clearing unit will tackle the slopes of Chappies between  09h30 and 15h30 on Wednesdays from 01 February - 31 March 2017  - weather permitting.   Alien Vegetation clearing will take place on the 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd February 2017 and in March 2017 on the 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th (all on Wednesdays and all between 09h30 and 15h30)

Chapman's Peak Drive is committed to protecting our slopes and as such Chappies will be closed to all traffic as per the schedule whilst the Alien Vegetation Clearing Team takes to the slopes of the mountain above our drive to remove as many aliens as possible on the above mentioned dates.   

These aliens must go and we need your cooperation to get rid of the alien vegetation!   They have no natural enemies here and we want our fynbos back.  Please help and support us and SANParks in the process of removing these aliens during which time Chapman's Peak Drive will be closed to all traffic - vehicles,  bicycles and pedestrians.  Please try and travel before 09h00 or after 16h00 on Wednesdays.  

Should you need to travel between Noordhoek and Hout Bay between those times, kindly use Ou Kaapse Weg as an alternative route.  We thank you for your co-operation and trust the mild inconvenience will be worth everyone's time to rid our slopes of Alien Vegetation.  

Should you have any queries please call 021 791 8222

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

It's holiday time in Cape Town,  it's summer and the festive season has begun.  Our magical city, welcomes visitors from all over the planet. Cape Town's star attractions are in high demand. Her accommodation establishments, her restaurants, her wineries, her beaches, her mountains and her roads are lively, and the city is bustling with energy and smiles. 

Capetonians themselves love summer and relish their mountain walks, watery activities and their beach days (with granadilla lollies!) and sundowners.  The majority of Cape Town's population is Christian so visitors will find many Christmas traditions are observed.  Official public holidays over the season are Reconciliation Day on Fri, 16 Dec 2016.  Christmas Day  on 25 Dec, Day of Goodwill  on 26 Dec. As Christmas falls over a weekend in 2016, Tuesday the 27th has been proclaimed a public holiday.  New Years Day (01 Jan) is a public holiday, but as it falls on a Sunday, Monday 2 Jan 2017 is also a public holiday. 

Chapman's Peak Drive is open all year, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day (even on public holidays) unless there are adverse weather conditions or reasons beyond our control.  The toll plaza office is open from Mondays to Friday from 08h00 - 17h00 except on the public holidays noted above.

Chapman's Peak Drive wishes all Capetonians and all our visitors a wonderful festive season and a fantastic summer.  Here is our list of Top Tips for the Holiday Season in Cape Town.

1. Check the weather
   Cape Town is traditionally warm and dry over the summer holiday period, but sometimes it can get really windy.  Plan your activities accordingly and note that it is often a good idea to get out early before the wind picks up  which is usually in the afternoon....and more often than not you will beat the crowds.
2. Sun and Sea
   It gets hot in Cape Town and the sun can be vicious. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated especially if you are hiking on the mountain, preferably in a group. Don't forget your hat and sunscreen when you are out and about - and do reapply!  At the beach, please use safe beaches and respect life guards on duty. 
3. Getting Around
   With the increase of holiday makers, the roads in Cape Town are busy.  To our foreign visitors we drive on the left hand side of the road and we work in kilometers when it comes to speed and distance.  You can hire a car, take a metered taxi/cab (average R10/km) or use the Uber service (download the app).  The Myciti bus operates on various routes and is a good public transport option (purchase a pre-paid myconnect card), or try the Red City Sightseeing Bus for major tourist routes.  Various tours can take you by vehicle to key attractions and there are more options to tour by bike or on foot.  Trains follow major commuter routes, one particularly popular route is the Southern Line from Cape Town to Simon's Town.
4. Safety
   These may seem like common sense, but sometimes in holiday mode we can forget to be conscious of our safety and security. 
   Take care of your personal belongings and your cash- don't let strangers help you at the ATM machine and don't flash cash around (or expensive jewellery). Stash don't flash!
   Don't hike or walk alone at night.
   Cape Town's festive season coincides with our long dry summer, so please make sure any cigarette butts and/or fires are put out properly to prevent an unnatural cause of Wild Fires.  
   Wildlife - please respect all wildlife and do not approach or feed any birds or animals. Chacma baboons can be dangerous,  snakes are usually more frightened of you and you should know the shark spotting flags at certain beaches - A white flag with a black shark, along with a loud siren, means a shark has been sighted and bathers should leave the water immediately.
   When driving buckle up and stick to the speed limit and please don't drink and drive.  We recommend avoiding peak travel periods where possible.
5. Have fun
   Cape Town must be one of the finest destinations to combine summer with Christmas festivities and yearend holidays.  The city is filled with heaps of land, air and sea outdoor adventures; fantastic tours; brilliant food and wine and some incredible summer events - from the Christmas Markets to Christmas concerts, Carols by Candlelight and the Festival of lights, tons of live music, dance festivals, shows, dining extravaganza's and nightlife.  Cape Town averages 11 hours of sunlight over this period, so you can pack in a multitude of activities and still party the night away with the friendly locals.  There is so much to see and do so enjoy our city this festive season, have fun, take lots of photographs and make lots of memories.

Useful Numbers in case of an emergency

• Ambulance – 10177
• Fire Department – 021 535 1100
• South African Police Services (SAPS) – 10111
• Cape Town emergency – 107 from a landline OR 021 420 7700 from a mobile phone
• Table Mountain National Park emergencies – 0861 106 417
• Visitor Safety and Support Programme – 021 487 6552
• Tourism Victim Support Programme – 021 487 4820
• Cape Town Tourism – 021 487 6800
• Dial 911 from a mobile phone and receive emergency help

It is our pleasure at this holiday time to thank our frequent users for your continued support and to wish all of you compliments of the season.
Entilini Operations, and all the staff at Chapman's Peak Drive, wish you and those close to you a joyous holiday season, a new year of happiness, and we hope for a world at peace.

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

Summer is coming and with it the desire to get out and enjoy the beauty of Cape Town has intensified. There are few more beautiful spots in this gorgeous city of ours than Chapman's Peak Drive... and as always at this time of year, the walkers, the runners, the cyclists, the Sunday Drivers, the tour buses, the gobsmacked self-drive visitors join the daily commuters on Chapman's Peak Drive for the sheer joy & pleasure of being there. .

It is no longer surprising to us, that year after year the battle between motorists, cyclists and pedestrians continues with alarming consistency, indignation and seeming shock and surprise that someone from "The Other Group"  is sharing the space with them.... and the war begins. Motorists are called aggressive, impatient and inconsiderate. Cyclists are called arrogant, selfish and inconsiderate. Pedestrians (walkers or runners) take a slightly lesser damage rating but they too are targeted too. 

Chappies is a toll road and is maintained as a shared resource for all road users.  Regardless of which "group" you belong to, all users must adhere to the rules of the road as provided by Provincial and National legislation.  Chapman's Peak Drive adheres to both sets of legislation and as Chappies is a unique route, comprising of a narrow winding mountain pass, it is essential that all road users adhere to the rules for safety reasons.  At Chapman's Peak Drive we have erected additional signage and polite notices reminding all our users of the rules.

Under South African Law, bicycles are regarded as legal vehicles.  According to National Legislature - the following rules apply to motorists and cyclists.  (See 1996 act here)

• Always stop at all red traffic lights and stop signs.
• Giving way to pedestrians and stopping before crosswalks (pedestrian crossings) so they’re free for pedestrians to use.
• Riding with the flow of traffic on streets on two-way and one-way streets.

These rules relate specifically to cycling:

• Riding without a helmet is illegal.
• Always stop at all red traffic lights and all stop streets, and give way to pedestrians.
• The law says you must ride on the left of the road.
• You must be seated in your saddle.
• You must ride in single file.
• You may not deliberately swerve your bicycle from side to side.
• If you are riding on a public road where there is a bicycle lane, you must use that lane.
• Along with dedicated bicycle paths and lanes, you may therefore ride on any road open to cycling. This excludes freeways (like the M3, M5, N1 and N2 in and near Cape Town, and all roads which indicate they are closed to bicycles.
• Use cycle lanes wherever these exist.

Provincial legislation - this relates only to the Western Cape and outlines the duties of motorists (e.g. the 1m passing rule) and cyclists (e.g. riding in single file and to the left of the road edge) and rules regarding cycle safety (e.g. lights and reflectors). It's worth reading here and noting that any person who contravenes or fails to comply with any provision of these regulations commits an offence, and on conviction is liable to a fine or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding one year. 

Some key points:

• Motorists may not come closer than 1 meter to a cyclist
• Cyclist may NOT ride abreast of another cyclist unless overtaking
• Bicycles must have lights on, front and back, between sunset and sunrise
• Bicycles must have front and rear reflectors

Duties of driver of motor vehicle when passing cyclists

• 2. (1) The driver of a motor vehicle who passes a cyclist on a public road must—
  (a) exercise due care while passing the cyclist;
  (b) leave a distance between the motor vehicle and the cyclist of at least one metre; and
  (c) maintain that distance from the cyclist until safely clear of the cyclist.
• (2) Despite any solid barrier line or other road traffic sign prohibiting encroachment upon the right-hand side of the road, the driver of a motor vehicle on a public road may, where the roadway is not wide enough to comply with subregulation (1)(b) or (c) when passing a cyclist, encroach on that part of the road to his or her right, but only if—
  (a) it can be done without obstructing or endangering other persons or vehicles;
  (b) it is safe to do so; and
  (c) it can be done and is done for a period and distance not longer than is necessary to pass the cyclist.
• Duties of cyclists
  3. (1) A cyclist riding on a public road must—
  (a) if the road has a pedal cycle lane, ride only in the pedal cycle lane and may not ride on any other portion of a public road except when crossing the road; or
  (b) if there is no pedal cycle lane, ride—
  (i) to the left of the left edge of the roadway; or
  (ii) on the roadway, keeping as close as practicable to the left edge of the roadway.
• (2) When riding on a public road, a cyclist must—
  (a) give conspicuous driving signals as contemplated in regulation 300 and Part II of Chapter X of the National Regulations; and
  (b) stop in the circumstances contemplated in regulation 307 of the National Regulations.
• (3) A person may not ride a pedal cycle on a public road—
  (a) on the right-hand side of a motor vehicle proceeding in the same direction, except when passing that motor vehicle or turning right at an intersection;
  (b) abreast of another cyclist proceeding in the same direction, except when passing that cyclist;
  (c) while wearing a headset, headphones or any listening device other than a hearing aid; or
  (d) while carrying another person on the pedal cycle, unless that pedal cycle is specifically equipped to carry more than one person.
• (4) A cyclist must exercise due care while—
  (a) passing a motor vehicle or turning right in the circumstances described in subregulation (3)(a); or
  (b) passing another cyclist in the circumstances described in subregulation (3)(b).

Having provided all of you with the rules, we ask that all road users give each other space and respect. Cyclists and runners, please use single file - it's a narrow road and whilst we do understand that it's great to chat to your buddy on your morning cycle or run, it may not be safe to do so and it's inconsiderate to the other road users. Cyclists and runners please wear bright visible clothing or reflective gear so you can be seen easily.  Motorists please be reminded that the speed limit on Chapman's Peak Drive is 40km/hour so you can't actually go speeding along. We ask that if you are stuck behind a cyclist, to breathe, relax, look at the view and with a bit of patience a space will open to pass safely - they might even be travelling faster than you! Let's all do our best to get along on Chapman's Peak Drive this summer by adhering to the rules of the road and respecting each other. 

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

We recently shared some information about the traffic congestion in the south peninsula. Three years of road-works are scheduled to start on Kommetjie Road and Ou Kaapse Weg, meaning that the congestion to and from the South Peninsula of Cape Town is not going to improve in the short term. 

Residents of the South Peninsula have been very active on social media with complaints of congestion, safety and the huge amount of time to commute "over the mountain".  People have been asking about alternatives and trying to find solutions. 

Most people are aware that Chapman's Peak Drive offers an alternative route to and from the south peninsula - albeit a paid one!  Needless to say many locals and residents complain about the cost.  At R42 per journey per direction for a light motor vehicle (2016), travelling on #Chappies 10 times per week adds up to R1,680 every 4 weeks! That's a lot of money - spare cash that most households in the south peninsula will struggle to fork out every month.  We understand! Quite honestly as Capetonian Residents ourselves, we would all struggle with a monthly cost of that nature.

However, not everyone is aware of the Frequent User Programme offered by Chapman's Peak Drive though.  It's a simple concept of a progressive discount.  In simple terms the more you drive the cheaper it gets... so if you Drive More you Save More. As a registered Frequent User, 10 trips over #Chappies per week, will cost R656 per month.  For even more savings, you get additional discounts with a preregistered Wild Card - the same 40 trips will cost R517.50 per month.  Both options are significantly cheaper than the standard toll tariff - more than R1000 of savings!

Cost is a factor but one also needs to address the cost of safety. Opponents of #Chappies and its toll argue that Chapmans Peak Drive is not safe, as a "rock might fall on your head". The safety record on Chapman's Peak Drive speaks for itself, with not a single fatality or serious injury in 13 years.  Toll money helps maintain the drive which includes and prioritizes the safety of its users.

The third cost is that of time. What is your time worth and how important is it to you to have time for family, friends, exercise or relaxation? 

Co-create reckons that an average South African wastes R7,100 annually sitting in traffic. We are pretty sure that Cape Town's south peninsula commuters are probably above the South African average in terms of how long they sit in traffic, but we don't know if there are any stats to prove it. Many have argued that driving #Chappies is a longer route, but we think that those times have changed with the increase of traffic on Ou Kaapse Weg. Needless to say, the duration of a journey via Chapman's Peak or Ou Kaapse Weg varies according to time of day, but in morning peak traffic from the South Peninsula into town, the time is almost identical.  The distance from the south peninsula to Cape Town CBD varies by 3km depending on the route selected.

• Longbeach Mall to Cape Town via OKW is 34km
• Longbeach to Cape Town via Chappies and KloofNek is 37km
• Longbeach Mall to Cape Town via Chappies and Constantia Nek is 37km.

The fourth and final point of observation regarding factors that influence your choice of whether to pay a toll fee and use Chapman's Peak Drive compared to the route over Ou Kaapse Weg is that of sanity. An arguable emotional state, but it is hard to counter with a more beautiful or scenic option as a daily commute. Chappies is frequently on "The most beautiful drives in the world" lists. This is a road on people's bucket lists and it could be your Daily Commute! The endless shades of ocean blue and sky, coupled with mountain energy, scenic vistas and ever-changing natural processes - is a privilege and a gift that we should appreciate experiencing for around R600 per month! The drive lends itself to a calming and soothing state of mind and in many instances Chappies is inspiring its magnificence. It's a personal choice but one that we personally would prefer on arrival at the office or at home after a long day. 

We face choices in life every day, and the choice to use Chapman's Peak Drive versus Ou Kaapse Weg as a daily commuter route to or from the South Peninsula of Cape Town, is one that each individual and household needs to decide for themselves. R500 - R700 per month for a daily commute is still a lot of money.  Commuting anywhere in the world costs money, in London for example, a ONE-DAY, Zone 1-6, anytime Travelcard is £17.20 (That's R300 for one day of travel!).  Where we spend our hard earned money and what we spend it on is a personal choice - but it's important to make an informed choice.

#DriveMoreSaveMore on Chapman's Peak Drive - register as a frequent user by visiting the Toll Plaza during office hours and complete the registration form.  Decide on pre-paid top-up or credit card payment options.  Your details will be loaded on the system immediately and off you go, ready to start saving on one of the most beautiful roads on earth.

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

Chapman's Peak Drive is rich in natural resources and Alien Vegetation Species are resource seekers. These plants disrupt our delicate eco-systems and steal  our underground water. These plants can expand rapidly and seek to destroy our natural fynbos .

SANParks  in conjunction with Working on Fire will be sending out a specialized team to clear these aliens using ropes and technology to chop and clear the slopes of Chapman's Peak Drive and protect them from the alien threat.  Whilst they are at work, the drive below will be encounter falling debris, making it dangerous for passage.

The SANParks  Alien  Vegetation clearing unit will tackle the slopes of Chappies between 09h30 and 15h30 on Wednesdays from 12th October 2016 - weather permitting.   Alien Vegetation clearing will take place on the 12th, 19th and 26th October 2016 and in November 2016 on the 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th (all on Wednesdays and all between 09h30 and 15h30)

Chapman's Peak Drive is committed to protecting our slopes and as such Chappies will be closed to all traffic as per the schedule whilst the Alien Vegetation Clearing Team takes to the slopes of the mountain above our drive to remove as many aliens as possible on the above mentioned dates.   

These aliens must go and we need your cooperation to get rid of the alien vegetation!   They have no natural enemies here and we want our fynbos back.  Please help and support us and SANParks in the process of removing these aliens during which time Chapman's Peak Drive will be closed to all traffic - vehicles,  bicycles and pedestrians.  Please try and travel before 09h00 or after 16h00 on Wednesdays.  

Should you need to travel between Noordhoek and Hout Bay between those times, kindly use Ou Kaapse Weg as an alternative route.  We thank you for your co-operation and trust the mild inconvenience will be worth everyone's time to rid our slopes of Alien Vegetation.  

Should you have any queries please call 021 791 8222

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

We are so proud that Chapman's Peak's Drive is part of the Natural Heritage of South Africa, as we gear up to celebrate Heritage Day in South Africa.  In 2004, the "Cape Floral Region Protected Areas" were inscribed as a World Heritage Site. The site includes eight representative protected areas including Table Mountain National Park (TMNP). Chapman's Peak Drive is situated on the slopes of the National Park and this World Heritage Site.

As South African's, we are also proud of a national pasttime - the Braai.  Heritage Day has become synonymous with Braai Day and throughout the country, the smell of wood smoke, and barbequed meat floats on the breeze. 

Combining these two events seems appropriate, except on Chapman's Peak Drive!  Due to our commitment to our Natural Heritage and our World Heritage Status, we have an obligation to protect and preserve the diversity and beauty in which we find ourselves.  As such, we kindly request that no fires or braais take place on Chapman's Peak Drive on Heritage Day.  As appealing and tempting as it is, to braai on Chappies with a view across the Atlantic and a mountain backdrop, and the venue for some of the best sunsets on earth.... we would like to remind those celebrating of the most recent Wild Fires of March 2015.

Heritage Day Events

There are many Heritage Day Events in the area and we encourage you to attend. Two of the most popular events will be held on either side of Chappies.

1. The Noordhoek Farm Village - annual potjiekos competition. A free event to see 10 teams competing for potjie honours. The judges are Franck Dangereux and Peter Goffe-Wood.  It's free, family friendly and fantastic food to try.  R100 gets you a tasting cup with rice to sample the wares. Judging and public tasting from 3pm. All day fun. (All proceeds go to Open Door in Ocean View Child Safety Centre)

2. Bay Harbour Market, Hout Bay - This ever popular weekend market will celebrate  Heritage Day with local Kos, local Gin, local music and locals! The Lamb Man will have lamb on a spit, there's Hout Bay's local Musgrave Gin to try and from  1pm, local gypsy band Manouche will be performing with the company of 80 awesome traders and their guests.  Entrance is free.

About Heritage Day

Heritage Day is one of the newly created South African public holidays. It is a day in which all are encouraged to celebrate their cultural traditions in the wider context of the great diversity of cultures, beliefs, and traditions that make up the nation of South Africa.  In KwaZulu-Natal, the 24th of September was formerly known as Shaka Day. When the proposed Public Holidays Bill before the New South African Parliament omitted Shaka Day, Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), a South African political party with a large Zulu membership, objected to the bill.  A compromise was reached when it was decided to create a day where all South Africans could observe and celebrate their diverse cultural heritage.

In an address marking Heritage Day in 1996, former President Nelson Mandela stated: "When our first democratically-elected government decided to make Heritage Day one of our national days, we did so because we knew that our rich and varied cultural heritage has a profound power to help build our new nation."

In the vein of celebrating shared culture rather than focusing on cultural divisions, a recent initiative by the Braai4Heritage calls upon all South Africans to celebrate their common roots by having a braai (barbeque) on Heritage day. After snubbing the idea in 2007 as trivializing, the National Heritage Council endorsed Braai Day in 2008. Tutu was quoted as saying in an interview: "We're going to have this wonderful thing on the 24th of this month ... when we all gather round one fire...It's a fantastic thing, a very simple idea. Irrespective of your politics, of your culture, of your race, of your whatever, hierdie ding doen ons saam [this thing we do together] ... just South Africans doing one thing together, and recognizing that we are a fantastic nation.”

Happy Heritage Day from all of us at Chapman's Peak Drive

People of the South Peninsula - you've chosen a lifestyle. The idyllic beautiful residential zone of the South Peninsula - community and family oriented, close to beaches and mountains and services.  People in the Beautiful South are becoming grumpy as traffic congestion to and from work impacts their daily lives and moods.   Stress is aggravated by the distance and time spent on a journey as well as the number of roads on a trip.  Time of day is also a factor, with congestion greater in the evening peak hours, when stress is compounded by fatigue from the work day.  This stress adds to a lower tolerance for frustration, negative moods and illness.

There are 3 entry and exit routes to the South Peninsula

1. The Main Road from Muizenberg - Simon's Town which has been undergoing road works for 8 years!  The Stop/Go system will be in place until mid-September 2016, and the work is scheduled to be completed with two-way traffic until approximately November 2016.  (started in 2008)

2. Ou Kaapse Weg - this route carries approximately 85% of the south peninsula traffic with peak congestion during the morning and evening.  The city has acknowledged the OKW is over capacity with its' single winding lane

3. Chapman's Peak Drive - a toll road, and one of the major tourism routes to the south peninsula and Cape Point.  At R42 per direction for a light motor vehicle, many commuters feel this is not a viable option.  

There are numerous factors behind the reasons for the congestion, and the City of Cape Town is undergoing a survey on all the issues affecting the traffic congestion.

The Mayoral committee member for transport Brett Herron said road works would be undertaken in two contracts. The first part would entail the upgrade of Kommetjie Main Road, between Ou Kaapseweg and a point just west of Capri Drive, to a four-lane dual-carriageway with shoulders/cycleways and pavements for pedestrians. It would also include the upgrade of Ou Kaapseweg between Kommetjie Main Road and a point just north of Noordhoek Road to a four-lane dual-carriageway, also with shoulders/cycleways and pavements for pedestrians as well as the upgrade of the Silvermine Road/Ou Kaapseweg intersection.

The current state of affairs though, means that these new road works in the south peninsula will be undertaken before the end of 2016 and be finished by mid-2019.  That means 3 more years of roadworks with associated congestion for the south peninsula.  Things are not going to improve for awhile.

Community forums on social media reflect the frustrations of commuters concerned about safety on Ou Kaapse Weg and questions from those looking for alternatives and sanity.  

From Noordhoek Community Forum Facebook Group

2 August:  "So tired of the traffic on Ou Kaapse Weg" 

7 July:  "I had to go to Cape Town early this morning. Went over Ou Kaapse Weg at about 05:45. It was like a racing track.  Cars flying passing me on solid lines, on blind corners, cutting me of. I felt very unsafe.  Not sure why they are in such a hurry to get to work. The funny thing is that you get to the robots at the bottom of OKW and those same car and drivers are only a few cars in front of you after putting everybody's live in danger"

9 Sept:  A: "Looking for advice in commuting via Chappies rather than M3. If you currently commute into city centre daily over chappies - how long does it take on average, what's the toll cost per month (using frequency card) and are there times to avoid or is it generally flowing? Will be doing a dry run today but interested in other experiences. Thanks"

B: "I do the route daily from Faeire Knowe.  With a wild Card Concession as well I pay approximately R600 per month. There are times when there is a back up at Llundudno and sometimes approaching Bakoven.  Takes me an hour to town. " 

A: "Thanks I did a dry run today & it was a pleasant 45 mins. And I signed up for their frequency card. It is worth getting a wild card just for the saving. " 

C: "the eudaemonic benefits are priceless"

D: "the savings on my sanity is priceless. I get to work within an hour, all zen and calm and filled with the joys of beautiful vistas. So worth it."

A: "i'm just hoping to save my sanity. OKW and the M3 are torture these days"

From South Peninsula Moms Facebook Page

18 July:  "Hi moms. Does anyone drive over Chapman peak to work every day? How does the frequent user card work and what does it roughly cost every month?

"in the beginning of the month you pay full price, and the more you use it, the cheaper it   gets, I put about R500/R600 on it a month. and I travel up to 10 times a week. "

So yes - there is an alternative solution to your traffic woes,  your sanity and your safety!  Use Chapman's Peak Drive. The journey's duration via Chapman's Peak or Ou Kaapse Weg varies according to time of day, but in morning peak traffic is almost identical. Chapman's Peak Drive is safer and more beautiful. The distance from the south peninsula to Cape Town CBD varies by 3km depending on the route selected.

• Longbeach Mall to Cape Town via OKW is 34km
• Longbeach to Cape Town via Chappies and KloofNek is 37km
• Longbeach Mall to Cape Town via Chappies and Constantia Nek is 37km.

BUT here's the kicker! Register as a Frequent User so you can afford it! It's a simple concept that the more you drive, the more you save. The Frequent User programme operates on a monthly basis. The first 3 trips over Chapman's Peak Drive will cost you the normal tariff price.  Thereafter each trip is progressively discounted until the next month when there is a reset.  A regular commuter travelling over Chapman's Peak Drive approximately 10 times per week will pay between R500 - R600 per month depending on the exact number of trips.

Speed and heavy congestion on Ou Kaapse Weg causes hurried, stressed motorists to behave rashly, overtake when it is not safe to do so, cause accidents and some innocent victims have paid the ultimate price.  Chapman's Peak Drive has a better safety record. Whilst both Ou Kaapse Weg and Chapman's Peak Drive are windy mountain routes, the speed limit on OKW is 70km/hr and on Chappies a mere 40km/hr.   In addition heavy vehicle and trucks cannot travel from south to north on Chapman's Peak Drive.

Sanity is another benefit that is harder to quantify. It appears to be a no-brainer that open horizons, mountain energy and a connection to nature may be more advantageous than bumper-to-bumper traffic.  Do a personal 'mood' survey comparing those who do a daily commute over Chapman's peak Drive and those who use Ou Kaapse Weg.

With at least three years of major roadworks needed to alleviate the chronic congestion in the south peninsula, and in particular Ou Kaapse Weg, what are your plans for your daily commute?

Anyone interested in the Frequent User programme can call the Chapman's Peak Drive Toll Plaza on 021 791 8222 or visit and register during office hours.

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

Transport for Cape Town, the City of Cape Town’s transport authority, will host a public information session about the Kommetjie Road project which is to commence by the end of October 2016, if all goes as planned. Residents from Kommetjie in the far south and interested and affected parties are requested to please attend this important meeting. Read more below:

The City of Cape Town has committed to spend R750 million on road infrastructure projects over the next five years to address traffic congestion across the city. The R750 million is being spent in accordance with the Congestion Management Programme which has prioritised Kommetjie in the far south as one of the main congestion areas in the city, among others.
The Kommetjie Road project is to commence by the end of October 2016 if all goes according to plan. The City will spend approximately R171 million on this project which is intended to relieve congestion:

• along Kommetjie Road (M65) to the west of the Ou Kaapse Weg intersection
• along Ou Kaapse Weg (M6) between Noordhoek Road and Kommetjie Road
• at the intersection of Ou Kaapse Weg and Silvermine Road
• at the signalised intersection of Kommetjie Road and Capri Drive

The project includes the upgrading and replacement of certain underground electrical and water supply services, as well as the construction of stormwater pipelines.
Residents and interested and affected parties are requested to please attend the following information session:

Date: 21 September 2016
Time: any time from 16:00 until 19:00
Venue: King of Kings Baptist Church, corner of Ou Kaapse Weg and Buller Louw Boulevard, Kommetjie

The capacity of the existing road infrastructure will be improved by turning sections of Kommetjie Road and Ou Kaapse Weg into four-lane dual-carriageways for vehicular traffic. Furthermore, the intersection at Ou Kaapse Weg and Silvermine Road will be upgraded to improve the sight distance and therefore the safety of this intersection for all road users.

‘Further to the improvements for vehicular traffic, the City will also address the lack of infrastructure for pedestrians along Kommetjie Road and Ou Kaapse Weg. A significant number of pedestrians walk to their destinations along these routes every morning and afternoon. Due to a lack of proper infrastructure, the pedestrians are often forced to either walk in the shoulder of the road or along dilapidated sidewalks and informal footpaths. Part of this project is to build walkways that are separate from the road so that pedestrians have a safe and convenient access route to their destinations. The newly constructed carriageways will also have shoulders that are wide enough to accommodate cyclists,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member: Transport for Cape Town, Councillor Brett Herron.

It is the intention to have two-way traffic flow at all times for the duration of this project and this requirement has been written into the construction contract.

‘This means that the implementation of a stop/go system, similar to the one that was implemented along Main Road in Clovelly, will not be allowed (apart from during an emergency). In terms of their contract with TCT, the contractor is obliged to ensure that the current road capacity along Kommetjie Road and Ou Kaapse Weg is maintained at all times and for as long as the project continues. In practice this means that commuters will have access to the same number of lanes during the construction period as they have available right now,’ said Councillor Herron.

The City is well aware of the traffic congestion on Kommetjie Road and Ou Kaapse Weg during peak-hour periods.

The precautions mentioned above, are stipulated in the project contract to try to limit the inconvenience and delays to traffic as far as reasonably possible and not to worsen the current traffic congestion.

‘That said, roadworks are disruptive in nature and we must say upfront that unforeseen challenges can derail our best intentions and precautions. I therefore want to caution residents and visitors to expect some unforeseen delays and to please be patient. We will try our best to ensure the safety of all road users, and to work as speedily as conditions will allow. We will also communicate continuously with the local residents and affected parties through notices and alerts, updates, and newsletters with useful information for the duration of the project,’ said Councillor Herron.

The purpose of the public information session is to inform local residents well ahead of time of the upcoming roadworks.

‘Maps indicating the intended road upgrades will be on display at the meeting so that residents and interested and affected parties can familiarise themselves with the project and the impact thereof. City of Cape Town officials and the contractor will be present to respond to questions. I urge Kommetjie residents and business owners to please attend the meeting so that they can plan ahead and be prepared as far as possible,’ said Councillor Herron.

The project timelines and further detailed information about the project itself will be announced in due course. A second public information session may be hosted shortly before the commencement of the project, if needed.

Attendees will also be requested to register at the meeting with all of their contact details so that the City can inform them of the latest updates relating to the project.

End

Issued by: Media Office, City of Cape Town

The annual increase of the Chapman’s Peak Drive toll tariff fees will take effect on 1 July 2016.

The increase arises from a contractual arrangement between the Department of Transport and Public Works and the Concessionaire.

Discount tariffs are still applicable to users who have pre-registered with the concessionaire operator and who maintain a minimum balance of R50.00 in their accounts. Discount tariffs are only applicable to non-commercial use only.

For a light motor vehicle, the toll will start now start at R42 for one way for individual trips.

Please see the new tariff schedule below or Click Here for full details.

* Wild Card only applicable for Category 2 vehicles

The following vehicles are exempted from paying toll fees:

• South African Police Service motor vehicles in the performance of duty
• South African National Defence Force motor vehicles in the performance of duty
• Western Cape Provincial Administration emergency vehicles and Traffic Police motor vehicles in the performance of duty
• City of Cape Town emergency services vehicles and Traffic Police motor vehicles in performance of duty
• Ambulances used for an ambulance service licensed in terms of the Western Cape Ambulance Services Act, 2012 (Act 3 of 2010) used in the performance of ambulance services
• Fire-fighting vehicles as defined in section 1 of the National Road Traffic Act, 1996 (Act 93 of 1996) used in the performance of fire-fighting services
• Rescue vehicles as defined in section 1 of the National Road Traffic Act,1996  (Act 93 of 1996) used in the performance of rescuing services

The following motor vehicles are prohibited from using the road:

Travelling in a direction from north to south (Hout Bay to Noordhoek)

• Heavy motor vehicles
• Articulated vehicles

Travelling in a direction from south to north (Noordhoek to Hout Bay)

• Heavy motor vehicles
• Category 3, Category 4 and Category 5 motor vehicles
• Any motor vehicle exceeding 2,1 metres in width

Please click here for all new tariffs – effective 1 July 2016

Frequent Users who are signed up and registered active users of Chapman’s Peak Drive, receive an SMS notification when #Chappies is closed.  You can sign up at the Toll Plaza during office hours Mon - Fri 08h00 - 17h00.

• Read More about Chapman’s Peak Drive Frequent Users here.
• See Tariffs  for all classes here
• As in life….Terms and Conditions apply!

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220

September in the Southern Hemisphere heralds spring time.  It is a gorgeous time of year in Cape Town and with the spring blossoms and warmer days, it's a great time to get fit for summer and enjoy the natural spectacle that is Cape Town.

We recommend taking a hike, and getting out there and what better place to hike, than Chapman's Peak itself. It is a moderate hike that should take an easy 3 hours including a picnic and photo stop at the summit. Obviously timings depend on your fitness levels and the number and duration of your rest stops or photo stops on the way up or down! This hike is suitable for children.

About Chapman's Peak

This is the mountain peak around which the famous scenic road, Chapman's Peak Drive is built. It was named after a certain John Chapman, a British sailor sent ashore to check for fresh water in what is now Hout Bay.

Getting there from the Hout Bay Side

Drive through Hout Bay and onto Chapman's Peak Drive  Park your car at the last checkpoint before the main viewpoint. (Note: Day Pass is applicable from the Hout Bay Side See Fixed Hours For Chappies Day Pass)

It is a large parking area, and the path to the peak is in the lower end of the parking area. You will see a green SANParks signpost at the start.

Chapman's Peak Hike

The path leads steeply uphill for about half an hour- following the left side of the stream bed before crossing to the right-hand bank to climb the ravine via a series of rock steps. It's a well maintained path and leads you to a plateau and cross roads with the route to Noordhoek.  

Turn right at this junction and follow the path as it winds itself around the lower peak.  It's a gorgeous section filled with proteas and a gentler gradient than the start of the hike, providing some welcome respite from the ascent.  There are stunning views of Hout Bay from here.  This section should also take about 30 minutes, and then you reach the saddle that separates the lower and main Chapman Peak. 

The final scramble to the top, should take another 20 -30 minutes. It's fairly steep with a short rock scramble near the top.  (Note that it is easier to go left just before the top and approach the beacon from the SE side). 

At the top there are plenty of large flat areas to rest and enjoy the views - through to Fish Hoek and across the entire Noordhoek Valley in addition to the Hout Bay views. The downhill route is generally faster, descending by the same route.

Highlights

This is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Cape Peninsula with outstanding views, beautiful fynbos and the sound of the adjacent surf and horizons to hang your dreams onto.  The summit has magnificent 360° views to experience the Peninsula in all its glory!  Look out for the proteas and ericas and indigenous trees. There are usually lizards and if you are lucky you may spot a black eagle or a fish eagle.

Note  Since the great fire of March 2015, there is a regeneration of plant species

Height  593 metres but elevation gain is about 450m

Distance Just over 5km for the return journey.

Cost Free (with a Day Pass or R42 for a light motor vehicle on Chapman's Peak toll road)

Best time to go

All year round,  but we particularly like spring! We also prefer the afternoon hike, it's not too hot and the shadows and sunset are spectacular in the late afternoon light.  There is plenty of time to get down before dark. Please note the day pass hours if you are using the Day Pass from the Hout Bay side.

What to take

• Sunglasses & hat & sunscreen
• Good walking shoes
• A warm top, in the event of sudden weather change
• Refreshments and water or a picnic. (please take your litter with you)
• Camera
• Binoculars

Our conclusion   A maximum reward hike.

10 Rules of Mountain Safety:  (Rules & information supplied courtesy of Table Mountain National Park)

• Don’t hike alone; four is the ideal number.
• Choose your route carefully and stick to it. Allow yourself enough time - start early. Inform someone of your route and what time you’re expected back.
• Choose a hike leader and walk at the pace of the slowest member.
• If lost - don’t split up. Rather try to retrace your steps. Remember that climbing down is more difficult than climbing up.
• Always take waterproof clothing, even in mid-summer, and wear walking shoes or hiking boots. Wear a hat or cap and sun block in summer. Weather changes rapidly.
• If lost or forced to stop because of bad weather, stay together and remain in one place. Find the closest shelter from wind and rain.
• In case of injury, take time to assess the situation. Then send two people for help and let the third remain with the injured person. If possible, mark the position on a map and send it with those going for help.
• Stick to well-used paths, which will be indicated on the Park's hiking map and read the warnings on this map. Don’t take shortcuts and especially don’t wander into ravines.
• Always take enough water, especially in summer, and food in case of a delay. Watch the weather and time, and turn back before you start running late or if bad weather threatens.
• Take a fully-charged cellphone. Some parts of the Park do not have cell phone reception, but you will always be able to reach a place where you can use a cell phone more quickly than you’ll get to a landline.

Three Rules for Personal Security

• As Table Mountain is an urban park, please exercise the same common sense and security precautions that you would anywhere else in the world.
• Do not attract unwanted attention by openly displaying cash, cameras or other valuables.
• If you are confronted by a criminal, don't resist. Handover your goods as resistance might incite a mugger to violence.
• Program emergency numbers in your cellphone before your hike.

Emergency Numbers

• Main emergency number: 086 110 6417
• Emergency SAPS (South African Police Service): 10111 (02110111 on cell)
• Emergency CT Emergency Services: (021) 480 7700
• Emergency CT Central OPS Centre: (021) 467 8002

All of these call centres are primed to respond to incidents on TMNP and investigate suspicious activities.

Chapman’s Peak Drive Toll Plaza Office Hours:

The Toll Plaza is open Monday - Friday from 08h00 - 16h30 for registration as a Frequent User.
Address: Toll Plaza, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Plaza Tel: 021 791 8220