The City of Cape Town is asking residents for comment on a significant road-infrastructure change that would permanently close a section of Buttskop Road in Blackheath as part of a safety initiative to eliminate the notorious rail level crossing.
What’s being proposed
The proposed plan involves the permanent closure of Buttskop Road, from Trafford Road to Van Riebeeck Road, along with a section of Meadow Road in Blackheath.
This closure would make way for the Zevenwacht Link Road extension, connecting Van Riebeeck Road to Albert Philander Road and removing the need for the problematic Buttskop rail level crossing.
Safety concern
The Buttkop rail level crossing has been a significant safety concern for years, with multiple fatal crashes prompting extensive investigations by rail and road safety authorities.
“We urge residents to please comment on the proposal for the closure of this portion of Buttskop Road, Blackheath,” said Mayco member for Urban Mobility Rob Quintas. “The proposed changes will allow for a permanent solution, which will see a substantial increase in the overall safety for all road users in the area.
The Buttskop rail level crossing has been the subject of several rail and road safety investigations in recent years due to the number of fatal crashes at this location and we would appreciate the input from the community on these important plans.”
READ MORE: Buttskop level crossing claims another life
Background and previous measures
The City has been working on solutions since 2019, when preliminary designs for eliminating the level crossing were completed. As a temporary safety measure in 2020 the City collaborated with Prasa and the Rail Safety Regulator to realign Frederick Street, reducing crash risks at the crossing.
The proposed solution
The comprehensive plan includes:
- Construction of a single carriageway along the future N7 route between Albert Philander Road and Van Riebeeck Road
- New traffic lights at both road intersections
- A bridge over the railway line
Road changes:
Buttskop Road closure: From Trafford Road to Van Riebeeck Road, including the existing level crossing
Trafford Road extension: Will be extended southwards, passing underneath the new road via a road-over-road bridge
Partial closure: Mid-block section of Meadow Road
Have your say
Public Consultation Period: 18 February to 18 March
Community open days
Open days will take place at Blackheath Community Hall (Evergreen Drive, Austinville) on:
Tuesday 24 February: 16:00 to 19:00
Thursday 26 February: 12:00 to 15:00
How to submit comments
View documents and submit feedback:
Website: www.capetown.gov.za/haveyoursay
Email: urbanmobility.CT@capetown.gov.za (Reference: 110252611)
Written submissions can be delivered to:
Subcouncil 14 office: Municipal Offices, corner of Van Riebeeck Road and Carinus Street, Kuils River
Kuils River Public Library: 12 Carinus Street
Assistance available
The City’s Public Participation Unit provides support for residents who cannot read or write, people with disabilities, or those from disadvantaged communities who need help submitting their comments.
Contact: Mbuthokazi Kubashe at 021 400 9809 or Mbuthokazi.Kubashe@capetown.gov.za
Technical queries: urbanmobility.CT@capetown.gov.za
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