Active Travel: Developing a Citywide Non-Motorised Transport Network Plan Cape Town

APPOINTMENT & PROJECT SCOPE
My firm was appointed as part of the professional team responsible for developing the Citywide Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) Network Plan for the Northern Region of Cape Town, focusing on integrating cycling and pedestrian networks with existing and planned urban infrastructure. The project team included a Landscape Architect (my firm), a Transport Engineer, and an Urban Designer, supported by the project lead.

The primary objective of the project was to design an integrated, safe, attractive, and accessible NMT network that connected public spaces, residential areas, commercial hubs, heritage sites, and public transport facilities, while respecting biodiversity, heritage, and scenic landscapes.

PROJECT SCOPE
The project encompassed the Northern Metro districts, including Bellville, Durbanville, Kraaifontein, Brackenfell, and surrounding urban fringes. The network design required balancing mobility, environmental protection, heritage preservation, and urban development priorities. Key deliverables included a high-level master NMT plan, complemented by sub-local network plans, and strategic guidance for phased implementation.

INFORMANT DOCUMENTS & BASELINE DATA
The project drew on extensive planning, environmental, and infrastructure datasets, including:
- Environmental and Biodiversity Resources
- Biodiversity Network Plan (2009): Classified ecological assets into Protected Sites, Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs), lower category CBAs, and transformed areas.

These informed route alignment and ensured avoidance of ecologically sensitive zones.

- District and City SDFs and EMFs: Guided urban restructuring, new development areas, environmental management zones, hydrological considerations, and land use priorities.

- Metropolitan Open Space Strategy (MOSS): Supported integration of non-motorised transport corridors with citywide green networks, ecological corridors, and public open space.

HERITAGE & SCENIC ASSETS
Cultural landscapes, historic vegetation, and scenic drives were integrated into route selection to conserve character, cultural identity, and visual quality.

BUILT ENVIRONMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
- City Parks Department data: Community and district parks, nature reserves, wetlands, rivers, and recreational facilities.
- Transport infrastructure data: IRT trunk and feeder routes, bus stops, rail networks, and road hierarchies.
- Public facilities and services: Schools, clinics, hospitals, libraries, police stations, and shopping centers.
- Urban development frameworks: Urban edge studies, new development areas, mixed-use zones, industrial areas, civic upgrades, and strategic development sites.

METHODOLOGY
- Data Assimilation and Overlay Analysis
- Integrated environmental, heritage, recreation, and transport datasets.
- Applied spatial overlays to identify potential corridors that maximize connectivity while minimizing ecological and heritage impact.

STRATEGIC NETWORK DESIGN
- Developed hierarchical NMT corridors: primary, secondary, and local routes.
- Aligned routes with public transport nodes, activity streets, parks, schools, and civic centers.
- Ensured safe, legible, and attractive pedestrian and cycling environments.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Technical Collaboration

Collaboration was extensive with the following internal stakeholders: City Parks Department, Biodiversity Management Department, Environmental Management Branch, Sports & Recreation Department, Urban Design Department, and Urban Planning officials. External stakeholders were also consulted through a Public Participation Process (PPP)

Workshops were conducted with Dutch cycling network consultants, incorporating international best-practice guidance on shared streets and woonerf principles.

NON-MOTORISED TRANSPORT STRATEGY
Aim: Prioritize strategic locations for cycling and walking to enhance mobility, accessibility, and safety.

Objectives:
- Increase cycling as a mode of travel.
- Create secure, attractive, and dignified public spaces.
- Promote a culture of walking and cycling.
- Support social and economic empowerment.

Strategic Themes:
- Access and connectivity.
- Community integration.
- Environmental sustainability.
- Heritage and cultural preservation.
- Public awareness and education.

OUTCOMES
- Integrated Non-Motorised Transport Network Plan for Northern Cape Town, connecting neighborhoods, commercial hubs, schools, parks, and transit facilities.
- Evidence-based route prioritization, incorporating biodiversity, heritage, and scenic constraints.
- Design guidance for local streets and shared spaces, informed by international best practice.
- Recommendations for phased implementation and integration with urban development plans.

IMPACT
The project delivered a comprehensive, sustainable framework for non-motorised transport that enhances accessibility, protects natural and cultural assets, and strengthens social cohesion. The plan provides the city with a strategic blueprint for active mobility and resilient urban growth in the Northern Metro region.