The prayers of Bothasig residents seems to have been answered.
This week a brand new speed camera wase installed in Plattekloof Road, the stretch between Vryburger Avenue and the traffic circle at De Grendel Avenue. The traffic circle has for some years been the site of several horrific motor vehicle accidents in which some motorists and passengers have lost their lives, many of which were reported on in TygerBurger.
In an effort to address this, flashing signalling lights were installed on Plattekloof Road leading up to the traffic circle last year, while yellow plastic barriers were also set up on the island of the circle itself. Since these interventions, there has not been a serious accident reported.
The new speed camera – a welcome addition to the already existing safety measures – has been welcomed by residents.
Application approved
Mario Borchards, chair of the Bothasig Community Policing Forum (CPF), described the installation of the permanent speed/red light (dual) camera on Plattekloof Road between Vryburger and the traffic circle at De Grendel as a significant development in road safety.
While serving as chair of the Bothasig Residents Association (BRA) Borchards formally applied for the installation of a permanent camera following numerous accidents and fatalities at the traffic circle as well as ongoing excessive speeding along Plattekloof Road. The situation had become deeply concerning for residents, particularly given the repeated loss of life and the clear pattern of reckless driving, he said.
In addition, both the CPF and police consistently received complaints from residents regarding speeding on Plattekloof Road and other roads within the Bothasig police precinct. These concerns were formally raised during community engagements and safety meetings, reflecting widespread frustration and fear among residents, Borchards explained.
He said the initial application for a permanent camera was unsuccessful. This was followed by nearly a year of continued correspondence, motivation and engagement with Traffic Services, supported by accident statistics and traffic surveys. After this prolonged process the Camera Review Committee formally approved the camera on 29 January 2025. Although the approval process itself took more than a year the installation has unfortunately taken a further year to materialise, Borchards explained.
He said he was informed that the delay came from the director of public prosecutions. “Nonetheless, we welcome the fact that implementation is now underway.”
Grateful
Borchards extended his appreciation to ward councillor Miquette Temlett for supporting the application.
“This stationary enforcement camera is expected to play a critical role in addressing persistent speeding along this stretch of road. The area has also experienced incidents of drag racing, particularly over weekends and, at times, during weekdays.
“The presence of a fixed camera will serve as a strong deterrent against reckless driving behaviour.”
Importantly, the installation will enhance safety at the De Grendel Avenue traffic circle, where high speeds have significantly increased the risk of collisions. Consistent enforcement should contribute to a reduction in accidents, serious injuries and potential fatalities, he said.
“This installation is ultimately a win for the community – a step toward safer roads and greater accountability. Road safety remains a shared responsibility between law-enforcement agencies and communities, but enforcement infrastructure such as this camera, and visible policing are essential components in protecting residents, pedestrians and motorists alike.”
Councillor responds
Temlett also welcomed the new development.
She said the installation of the permanent speed camera is a welcome step in strengthening road safety enforcement in their area.
“Mobile speed-monitoring units have been active throughout the process to ensure continued enforcement while the permanent structure was being finalised. However, I must express my disappointment at some of the comments circulating on social media – including remarks suggesting the camera should be removed or even vandalised by stealing copper from the installation. This is not only irresponsible but deeply ironic, given that the community itself requested stronger measures to address speeding and improve safety. No amount of enforcement can replace responsible driving, and ultimately, road safety depends on drivers adhering to the speed limit and exercising good judgment behind the wheel.
She said the new camera supports their ongoing commitment to safer roads, but lasting change requires every driver to play their part.
