Speed limit reduced on R44 in Betty's Bay after resident complaints

Western Cape motorists have been notified of a speed limit reduction along a section of the R44 through Betty’s Bay. This follows several complaints from community members in the area to reduce the speed limit on the busy route for the safety of residents and other road users.

The Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, and Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, made the announcement during engagement with the Overstrand Municipality on Monday.

Last year, the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure reportedly received a request to decrease the speed limit on the commercial section of the roadway known as “The Hub” and the entrance to the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens to 60km/h from the initial 80km/h limit.

speed limit reduction

This is to improve safety on the section of the road. Following the request, an investigation was launched to assess the matter.

During the meeting with local councillors and stakeholders on Tuesday, Minister Simmers said the investigation by the infrastructure department has shown that a decrease in the speed limit on this section of the road is viable.

” – I am pleased that my department and the Department of Mobility can work together to respond to the concerns of our communities.”

The new speed limit road signboards are said to be installed in due course.

In a joint statement, the departments said it is important to note that the posted speed limit is not a target or to enforce safe speed; it still remains the responsibility of motorists to keep to the legal limit.

speed limit reduction — Image: Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure addresses Overstrand Municipality

Meanwhile, Minister Sileku says by reducing the speed limit through this busy section, the local government is not only protecting lives but also supporting safer access for both residents and tourists.

“The safety of all road users is a priority for the Western Cape Government. – This is a perfect example of how Departments of Infrastructure and Mobility work hand.”

Simmers added that towns in the Western Cape continue to expand, and the provincial road networks need to accommodate growing populations. He added that tourism also plays an important role in these local economies and contributes to job creation.

“- as the sector continues to grow, it is important to ensure that roads in the Western Cape are safe, accessible and enable a growing economy that creates job opportunities for all.”