This is our team for the world cup.We support them and wish all an exciting month of soccer and festivities.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Meet Bafana Bafana
This is our team for the world cup.We support them and wish all an exciting month of soccer and festivities.
City Limits large Events during world cup
CITY OF CAPE TOWN - MEDIA RELEASE - 07 JUNE 2010
City limits large events during World Cup
The City of Cape Town would like to advise event organisers that any further applications for large events during the FIFA World Cup TM period may not be granted.
“In order to host the biggest single sporting event in the world, the Host City must run smoothly. All other available municipal, transport and security services have to ensure the event is staged safely and effectively,” explained Pieter Cronje, the City’s 2010 Spokesperson.
It is for this reason that the Host City Agreement, signed between FIFA and South African host cities, restricts any other major events. The City and the South African Police Services(SAPS) have considered and approved a number of events that will enhance the World Cup experience in Cape Town, but in light of the demands on resources it is unlikely that any further applications will be accepted.
The City is obligated to maintain an acceptable level of ‘normal’ service delivery to residents throughout the 2010 World Cup period. Furthermore, if there are several large events happening concurrently or in close succession, the SAPS may advise against holding some of the proposed events.
The City’s Events By-law applies to any event held within the area of jurisdiction of the City, including events held on both private and public land that impact on the resources of the City and the surrounding community. This By-Law does not apply to:
• Events of fewer than 50 persons where there is no amplified sound or temporary structures erected; and
• Small events such as family and community events held on private property or purpose built venues, subject to any other legislation. This exclusion does not apply to events or parts of events which by their nature, size or impact are considered outside the normal use parameters for the venue.
Anyone who wishes to organise a public event must apply to the City’s Events and Permitting Office on the prescribed form with full details of location, facilities, times, numbers, road access and closures and other information requested. The event cannot proceed without a permit. This requirement serves to ensure the safety of those attending, avoid disruption and limit inconvenience to surrounding areas.
Following an application, various aspects of the event are checked, including fire escapes and hazards, impact on traffic, health requirements, noise restrictions and the safety of any temporary structures. Public safety and security is an important consideration at events. The SAPS have to be advised and become involved in any significant event, together with the City’s Metro Police, Traffic Services and Law Enforcement. In addition, other municipal services may be required e.g. the supply of electricity, water and sanitation for the event and waste removal. Once all of these requirements have been met, a permit is issued.
Event organisers who do not apply for a permit, proceed with the event before it is granted, or deviate from their event plan run the risk of incidents which could lead to damage, injuries or even death. In cases where the events are non-compliant, organisers will be held accountable and could face legal action.
The event footprint for the hosting of the World Cup is far greater than just the Cape Town Stadium and its precinct. It includes the airport; main transport routes; key hotels for teams, officials and dignitaries; training grounds; the Fan Fest at the Grand Parade; the Fan Walk to the stadium; and the four fan jols(Public Viewing Areas), all funded by the City for free viewing and entertainment for residents and visitors to Cape Town.
While the City does not discourage gatherings at homes or on a small scale at safe venues, it must act responsibly by warning organisers and attendees of the risk of hosting non-compliant events.
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Pieter Cronjé, Director: Communication and 2010 Spokesperson, City of Cape Town, Tel: 021 400 4592 or Cell: 082 465 4965
City limits large events during World Cup
The City of Cape Town would like to advise event organisers that any further applications for large events during the FIFA World Cup TM period may not be granted.
“In order to host the biggest single sporting event in the world, the Host City must run smoothly. All other available municipal, transport and security services have to ensure the event is staged safely and effectively,” explained Pieter Cronje, the City’s 2010 Spokesperson.
It is for this reason that the Host City Agreement, signed between FIFA and South African host cities, restricts any other major events. The City and the South African Police Services(SAPS) have considered and approved a number of events that will enhance the World Cup experience in Cape Town, but in light of the demands on resources it is unlikely that any further applications will be accepted.
The City is obligated to maintain an acceptable level of ‘normal’ service delivery to residents throughout the 2010 World Cup period. Furthermore, if there are several large events happening concurrently or in close succession, the SAPS may advise against holding some of the proposed events.
The City’s Events By-law applies to any event held within the area of jurisdiction of the City, including events held on both private and public land that impact on the resources of the City and the surrounding community. This By-Law does not apply to:
• Events of fewer than 50 persons where there is no amplified sound or temporary structures erected; and
• Small events such as family and community events held on private property or purpose built venues, subject to any other legislation. This exclusion does not apply to events or parts of events which by their nature, size or impact are considered outside the normal use parameters for the venue.
Anyone who wishes to organise a public event must apply to the City’s Events and Permitting Office on the prescribed form with full details of location, facilities, times, numbers, road access and closures and other information requested. The event cannot proceed without a permit. This requirement serves to ensure the safety of those attending, avoid disruption and limit inconvenience to surrounding areas.
Following an application, various aspects of the event are checked, including fire escapes and hazards, impact on traffic, health requirements, noise restrictions and the safety of any temporary structures. Public safety and security is an important consideration at events. The SAPS have to be advised and become involved in any significant event, together with the City’s Metro Police, Traffic Services and Law Enforcement. In addition, other municipal services may be required e.g. the supply of electricity, water and sanitation for the event and waste removal. Once all of these requirements have been met, a permit is issued.
Event organisers who do not apply for a permit, proceed with the event before it is granted, or deviate from their event plan run the risk of incidents which could lead to damage, injuries or even death. In cases where the events are non-compliant, organisers will be held accountable and could face legal action.
The event footprint for the hosting of the World Cup is far greater than just the Cape Town Stadium and its precinct. It includes the airport; main transport routes; key hotels for teams, officials and dignitaries; training grounds; the Fan Fest at the Grand Parade; the Fan Walk to the stadium; and the four fan jols(Public Viewing Areas), all funded by the City for free viewing and entertainment for residents and visitors to Cape Town.
While the City does not discourage gatherings at homes or on a small scale at safe venues, it must act responsibly by warning organisers and attendees of the risk of hosting non-compliant events.
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Pieter Cronjé, Director: Communication and 2010 Spokesperson, City of Cape Town, Tel: 021 400 4592 or Cell: 082 465 4965
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
City Processing Objections to Property Valuations
City processing objections to property valuations
Some 35 000 valid objections were lodged during the objections process, which translates into approximately 4.5% of the total number of rateable properties in
Issued by: Communication Department, City of
Media enquiries: Christopher Gavor, Tel: 021 400 9900 or Cell: 082 899 3308
Monday, May 10, 2010
MYCiTi - Cape Town transport gets a new name and look
CITY OF CAPE TOWN - MEDIA RELEASE - 06 MAY 2010
Cape Town transport gets a new name and look – MYCiTi
The City of Cape Town today introduced its first branded Integrated Rapid Transit(IRT) buses and unveiled the name, colours and design. The new public transport system will be known as MYCiTi.
At the launch today, at the Granger Bay Bus Station near the new Cape Town Stadium, Councillor Elizabeth Thompson, Mayoral Committee Member for Transport, Roads and Major Projects, said: "We hope users of MYCiTi will feel a sense of belonging and ownership when they are passengers or refer to the service. This name identifies a user-friendly service which transports people safely, conveniently, reliably and helps them avoid being stuck in traffic. We want them to feel proud to live in a world-class city with modern facilities. MYCiTi will offer people greater choice and quality in their own public transport system."
"As the IRT rolls out across Cape Town in the coming years, it aims to be much more than a transport system, it must give citizens a sense of control, ownership, greater choice, mobility and access to opportunities, " Cllr Thompson said.
Alderman Ian Neilson, Executive Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Finance, said that although the primary benefit of the IRT service was for passengers, the wider benefit would extend to all residents and visitors as the service will unlock economic opportunities. It will make the city more accessible.
"The IRT will add value to Cape Town by making it a better place to live and work in. It makes Cape Town a better place in which to invest resources, both human and financial", Neilson said.
The name MYCiTi is multilingual, easy to use for Capetonians and visitors alike, and unique to Cape Town with its play on the city’s name. It extends to the creation of a ribbon element that is a central theme in the design and represents how the service threads through the city, linking places and people to each other and to opportunity.
The logo shape is aligned to the City's corporate identity. The red ribbon in the logo is an abstract interpretation of Devil's Peak, Table Mountain and Lion's Head and also resembles the red roads that MyCiTi buses will use as they weave through Cape Town.
The font or letter type is bold to easily identify the system while the colour palette is warm and approachable. The inspiration is drawn from the many colours of the deep blue ocean that surrounds the Cape Peninsula. The accent colour red represents red IRT roads, but is also symbolic of the connections that the system will offer to all its passengers across the city.
"We believe the exhilaration of this new brand design matches that of the Cape Town experience", said Cllr Thompson.
"The slogan, ‘siyajikeleza, laat wiel, going places’ is obviously related to transport, but it also represents other themes central to the IRT service including a sense of achievement and of going places in one's life. The underlying promise of the slogan is that the IRT will expand as the city grows. It also extends to Cape Town itself, as a city that is ready to go and compete on the international stage” she added.
The City has ordered 43 IRT buses, eight 18m long articulated buses and thirty five 12m long buses. The buses will first be used during the 2010 FIFA World Cup to ferry visitors from the airport to and around the central city. They will also provide a free shuttle service on match days from the Hertzog Boulevard Bus Station to Cape Town Stadium for people who hold tickets for the match.
After the World Cup the buses will also be used in the roll-out of Phase 1a of Cape Town’s IRT system.
The airport shuttle service will launch on Saturday 29 May 2010.
End
Issued by: City of Cape Town, Communication Department
Media enquiries: Kylie Hatton, Media Manager, Cell: 082 874 4605
Cape Town transport gets a new name and look – MYCiTi
The City of Cape Town today introduced its first branded Integrated Rapid Transit(IRT) buses and unveiled the name, colours and design. The new public transport system will be known as MYCiTi.
At the launch today, at the Granger Bay Bus Station near the new Cape Town Stadium, Councillor Elizabeth Thompson, Mayoral Committee Member for Transport, Roads and Major Projects, said: "We hope users of MYCiTi will feel a sense of belonging and ownership when they are passengers or refer to the service. This name identifies a user-friendly service which transports people safely, conveniently, reliably and helps them avoid being stuck in traffic. We want them to feel proud to live in a world-class city with modern facilities. MYCiTi will offer people greater choice and quality in their own public transport system."
"As the IRT rolls out across Cape Town in the coming years, it aims to be much more than a transport system, it must give citizens a sense of control, ownership, greater choice, mobility and access to opportunities, " Cllr Thompson said.
Alderman Ian Neilson, Executive Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Finance, said that although the primary benefit of the IRT service was for passengers, the wider benefit would extend to all residents and visitors as the service will unlock economic opportunities. It will make the city more accessible.
"The IRT will add value to Cape Town by making it a better place to live and work in. It makes Cape Town a better place in which to invest resources, both human and financial", Neilson said.
The name MYCiTi is multilingual, easy to use for Capetonians and visitors alike, and unique to Cape Town with its play on the city’s name. It extends to the creation of a ribbon element that is a central theme in the design and represents how the service threads through the city, linking places and people to each other and to opportunity.
The logo shape is aligned to the City's corporate identity. The red ribbon in the logo is an abstract interpretation of Devil's Peak, Table Mountain and Lion's Head and also resembles the red roads that MyCiTi buses will use as they weave through Cape Town.
The font or letter type is bold to easily identify the system while the colour palette is warm and approachable. The inspiration is drawn from the many colours of the deep blue ocean that surrounds the Cape Peninsula. The accent colour red represents red IRT roads, but is also symbolic of the connections that the system will offer to all its passengers across the city.
"We believe the exhilaration of this new brand design matches that of the Cape Town experience", said Cllr Thompson.
"The slogan, ‘siyajikeleza, laat wiel, going places’ is obviously related to transport, but it also represents other themes central to the IRT service including a sense of achievement and of going places in one's life. The underlying promise of the slogan is that the IRT will expand as the city grows. It also extends to Cape Town itself, as a city that is ready to go and compete on the international stage” she added.
The City has ordered 43 IRT buses, eight 18m long articulated buses and thirty five 12m long buses. The buses will first be used during the 2010 FIFA World Cup to ferry visitors from the airport to and around the central city. They will also provide a free shuttle service on match days from the Hertzog Boulevard Bus Station to Cape Town Stadium for people who hold tickets for the match.
After the World Cup the buses will also be used in the roll-out of Phase 1a of Cape Town’s IRT system.
The airport shuttle service will launch on Saturday 29 May 2010.
End
Issued by: City of Cape Town, Communication Department
Media enquiries: Kylie Hatton, Media Manager, Cell: 082 874 4605
Road Closures during 2010 Soccer World Cup
CITY OF CAPE TOWN MEDIA RELEASE - 05 MAY 2010 - Road closures during World Cup
“Traffic will be affected on match days in Cape Town during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ due to a number of necessary road closures. The City asks the public to be aware of these and to plan their routes and travel times accordingly. We apologise for any inconvenience caused,” said the City’s Director: Communication and 2010 Spokesperson, Pieter Cronje.
Public transport services have been extended as part of the City’s transport plan for the event. “We encourage commuters to utilise these extended public transport services offered by the City,” said Peter Sole, Manager: 2010 Transport Operations.
All trains and certain train stations will have additional security for the duration of the World Cup. In addition, the use of non-motorised transport and car pooling is greatly encouraged.
Detailed information appears below.
Impact of road closures during 2010 FIFA World CupTM - ROAD CLOSURES ON CAPE TOWN MATCH DAYS
Routes affected within the Central Business District (CBD)
Four hours before kick-off there will be no general access to Hertzog Boulevard between Civic Avenue and Heerengracht, along Hans Strijdom Avenue, and along Adderley Street between Strand Street and Hertzog Boulevard. Premises in this area will be provided with the necessary access via alternative routes and opening the left lane of affected roads as required. The intersections of Hans Strijdom, at Long and Loop Streets will remain open to crossing traffic at all times, but may close for short periods before and after matches to give priority to the Match Day shuttle.
CBD connections to Green Point, Sea Point, Fresnaye and Atlantic Seaboard
Western Boulevard will be closed in both directions, from Buitengragt in the central business district (CBD), to the Beach Road intersection at Three Anchor Bay. However, motorists will be able to exit the V&A Waterfront using Portswood Road, turning left into Western Boulevard, and then making a left turn only into Buitengragt.
Somerset Road will be closed from Buitengragt to Ebenezer Road in both directions between Ebenezer Road and York Road from 4 hours before the match to 4 hours after final whistle. From Ebenezer Road to York Road, the CBD-bound carriageway will be closed. However, two-way traffic will be accommodated on the Sea Point-bound carriageway. This route is intended for local access only, and should be avoided by non-residents.
Road closures will mostly impact upon traffic leaving the CBD during the evening peak period. People travelling to the Bantry Bay, Clifton and Camps Bay areas along the Atlantic Seaboard are advised to use Kloof Nek Road when leaving the city centre. During match day closures, public transport will be redirected onto High Level Road. It is thus recommended that, due to the expected congestion on High Level Road, Kloof Nek Road be used by general traffic.
On match days, it is expected that traffic volumes on High Level and Kloof Nek Roads as well as at the Buitengragt intersections will be very heavy. Thus, wherever possible, it is recommended that commuters adjust their routes and travel times to avoid these routes during road closures.
At the Stadium
Beach Road from Fritz Sonnenberg Road to Haul Road will be open for two-way traffic on the seaward carriageway. The mountain side carriageway will be open to accredited vehicles only. Beach Road from Haul to Portswood Road will be open for one-way traffic towards the CBD. Vehicles exiting the V&A Waterfront in the direction of Mouille Point will access Beach Road via Haul Road. Fritz Sonnenberg Road south-east of the Metropolitan Golf Course entrance, Vlei Road and Fort Wynyard Road will be closed to all but accredited vehicles.
ROAD CLOSURES FOR THE DURATION OF THE 2010 EVENT
Around FIFA Fan Fest™ on Grand Parade
The Grand Parade in the centre of Cape Town, near Cape Town Station, is the venue for the FIFA Fan Fest™. This is a festival venue at which all the matches played will be televised on big screens in addition to daily live entertainment. Minimal road closures will enhance accessibility to the venue. As of 1 May the closures will be:-
· Lower Plein Street between Darling and Castle Streets in the direction of Cape Town Station. Lower Plein Street will remain open for traffic moving between Castle and Darling Streets in the direction of the mountain, and
· Corporation Street between Longmarket and Darling Streets.
Between 6 June and 14 July the following additional road closures will be in place:
· Darling Street between Buitenkant and Plein Streets will be closed.
· The eastbound (Woodstock direction) carriageway of Darling Street between Plein and Adderley Streets will be closed for the duration.
· Plein Street between Longmarket and Darling Streets will operate one-way only in the direction of Darling Street.
· Corporation and Parade Streets will be closed to general traffic between Caledon and Darling Streets with the exception of vehicles requiring access to premises in these streets.
· Lower Plein Street will be open daily only for one-way traffic in the direction of the mountain in the morning up to 09:30 after which the road will be closed to traffic.
Around the Stadium
Fritz Sonnenberg Road south-east of the Metropolitan Golf Course entrance, Vlei Road and Fort Wynyard Road will be closed with access for accredited vehicles only.
Granger Bay Boulevard from Western Boulevard Circle to Beach Road will be closed to all vehicles.
IMPACT OF ROAD CLOSURES ON NORMAL PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Public transport services that, for any portion of their routes, operate along closed or restricted roads may have some route section deviations. Bus services provided by Golden Arrow will be affected by the envisaged road closures in the Green Point area as well as the CBD on both match and non-match days. The affected services in the different areas, as well as their rerouting, are listed below:
Bus services travelling through the Green Point area
On match days, the section of Somerset Road in Green Point, i.e. between York Road and Buitengragt, will be closed to traffic.
All bus services from the CBD travelling through the Green Point area will be redirected to High Level Road, as will all buses travelling from the Camps Bay area through Green Point towards the CBD. Buses will be able to enter Main Road from High Level Road along Cavalcade and Glengariff Roads using existing bus stops on High Level Road.
Bus services entering the CBD
All bus services affected by the road closures will be redirected. Golden Arrow is still to confirm the new route, but all services will
terminate at the Golden Acre. Updated information is available from the 24/7 Transport Information Centre on 0800 65 64 63. Road
closures will have a minimal impact on services entering the CBD via Darling Street.
MINIBUS TAXI SERVICES
The minibus taxi industry is being consulted with regard to routes and pick-up/drop-off areas that have to be rerouted or moved. These will be communicated as soon as finality is reached.
SWITCH TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT
All fans and commuters travelling to the CBD (City Centre) are strongly encouraged to use public transport, non-motorised transport and car pooling. The World Cup period is an ideal opportunity to try out the extended public transport services. Trains and certain train stations will have additional security measures in place for the duration of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Pieter Cronje, Director: Communication, City of Cape Town, Tel: 021 400 4592 or Cell: 082 465 4965
Peter Sole, Manager: 2010 Transport Operations, City of Cape Town, Tel: 021 400 4735 or Cell: 084 222 1462
“Traffic will be affected on match days in Cape Town during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ due to a number of necessary road closures. The City asks the public to be aware of these and to plan their routes and travel times accordingly. We apologise for any inconvenience caused,” said the City’s Director: Communication and 2010 Spokesperson, Pieter Cronje.
Public transport services have been extended as part of the City’s transport plan for the event. “We encourage commuters to utilise these extended public transport services offered by the City,” said Peter Sole, Manager: 2010 Transport Operations.
All trains and certain train stations will have additional security for the duration of the World Cup. In addition, the use of non-motorised transport and car pooling is greatly encouraged.
Detailed information appears below.
Impact of road closures during 2010 FIFA World CupTM - ROAD CLOSURES ON CAPE TOWN MATCH DAYS
Routes affected within the Central Business District (CBD)
Four hours before kick-off there will be no general access to Hertzog Boulevard between Civic Avenue and Heerengracht, along Hans Strijdom Avenue, and along Adderley Street between Strand Street and Hertzog Boulevard. Premises in this area will be provided with the necessary access via alternative routes and opening the left lane of affected roads as required. The intersections of Hans Strijdom, at Long and Loop Streets will remain open to crossing traffic at all times, but may close for short periods before and after matches to give priority to the Match Day shuttle.
CBD connections to Green Point, Sea Point, Fresnaye and Atlantic Seaboard
Western Boulevard will be closed in both directions, from Buitengragt in the central business district (CBD), to the Beach Road intersection at Three Anchor Bay. However, motorists will be able to exit the V&A Waterfront using Portswood Road, turning left into Western Boulevard, and then making a left turn only into Buitengragt.
Somerset Road will be closed from Buitengragt to Ebenezer Road in both directions between Ebenezer Road and York Road from 4 hours before the match to 4 hours after final whistle. From Ebenezer Road to York Road, the CBD-bound carriageway will be closed. However, two-way traffic will be accommodated on the Sea Point-bound carriageway. This route is intended for local access only, and should be avoided by non-residents.
Road closures will mostly impact upon traffic leaving the CBD during the evening peak period. People travelling to the Bantry Bay, Clifton and Camps Bay areas along the Atlantic Seaboard are advised to use Kloof Nek Road when leaving the city centre. During match day closures, public transport will be redirected onto High Level Road. It is thus recommended that, due to the expected congestion on High Level Road, Kloof Nek Road be used by general traffic.
On match days, it is expected that traffic volumes on High Level and Kloof Nek Roads as well as at the Buitengragt intersections will be very heavy. Thus, wherever possible, it is recommended that commuters adjust their routes and travel times to avoid these routes during road closures.
At the Stadium
Beach Road from Fritz Sonnenberg Road to Haul Road will be open for two-way traffic on the seaward carriageway. The mountain side carriageway will be open to accredited vehicles only. Beach Road from Haul to Portswood Road will be open for one-way traffic towards the CBD. Vehicles exiting the V&A Waterfront in the direction of Mouille Point will access Beach Road via Haul Road. Fritz Sonnenberg Road south-east of the Metropolitan Golf Course entrance, Vlei Road and Fort Wynyard Road will be closed to all but accredited vehicles.
ROAD CLOSURES FOR THE DURATION OF THE 2010 EVENT
Around FIFA Fan Fest™ on Grand Parade
The Grand Parade in the centre of Cape Town, near Cape Town Station, is the venue for the FIFA Fan Fest™. This is a festival venue at which all the matches played will be televised on big screens in addition to daily live entertainment. Minimal road closures will enhance accessibility to the venue. As of 1 May the closures will be:-
· Lower Plein Street between Darling and Castle Streets in the direction of Cape Town Station. Lower Plein Street will remain open for traffic moving between Castle and Darling Streets in the direction of the mountain, and
· Corporation Street between Longmarket and Darling Streets.
Between 6 June and 14 July the following additional road closures will be in place:
· Darling Street between Buitenkant and Plein Streets will be closed.
· The eastbound (Woodstock direction) carriageway of Darling Street between Plein and Adderley Streets will be closed for the duration.
· Plein Street between Longmarket and Darling Streets will operate one-way only in the direction of Darling Street.
· Corporation and Parade Streets will be closed to general traffic between Caledon and Darling Streets with the exception of vehicles requiring access to premises in these streets.
· Lower Plein Street will be open daily only for one-way traffic in the direction of the mountain in the morning up to 09:30 after which the road will be closed to traffic.
Around the Stadium
Fritz Sonnenberg Road south-east of the Metropolitan Golf Course entrance, Vlei Road and Fort Wynyard Road will be closed with access for accredited vehicles only.
Granger Bay Boulevard from Western Boulevard Circle to Beach Road will be closed to all vehicles.
IMPACT OF ROAD CLOSURES ON NORMAL PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Public transport services that, for any portion of their routes, operate along closed or restricted roads may have some route section deviations. Bus services provided by Golden Arrow will be affected by the envisaged road closures in the Green Point area as well as the CBD on both match and non-match days. The affected services in the different areas, as well as their rerouting, are listed below:
Bus services travelling through the Green Point area
On match days, the section of Somerset Road in Green Point, i.e. between York Road and Buitengragt, will be closed to traffic.
All bus services from the CBD travelling through the Green Point area will be redirected to High Level Road, as will all buses travelling from the Camps Bay area through Green Point towards the CBD. Buses will be able to enter Main Road from High Level Road along Cavalcade and Glengariff Roads using existing bus stops on High Level Road.
Bus services entering the CBD
All bus services affected by the road closures will be redirected. Golden Arrow is still to confirm the new route, but all services will
terminate at the Golden Acre. Updated information is available from the 24/7 Transport Information Centre on 0800 65 64 63. Road
closures will have a minimal impact on services entering the CBD via Darling Street.
MINIBUS TAXI SERVICES
The minibus taxi industry is being consulted with regard to routes and pick-up/drop-off areas that have to be rerouted or moved. These will be communicated as soon as finality is reached.
SWITCH TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT
All fans and commuters travelling to the CBD (City Centre) are strongly encouraged to use public transport, non-motorised transport and car pooling. The World Cup period is an ideal opportunity to try out the extended public transport services. Trains and certain train stations will have additional security measures in place for the duration of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Pieter Cronje, Director: Communication, City of Cape Town, Tel: 021 400 4592 or Cell: 082 465 4965
Peter Sole, Manager: 2010 Transport Operations, City of Cape Town, Tel: 021 400 4735 or Cell: 084 222 1462
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Community Braai in Constantia Hills
Twice a year the CHRA hosts a community braai. The residents of our lovely suburb enjoy a fun-filled, late afternoon/early Sunday evening braai on the field at the top of Rodgers Avenue, Berg-en-Dal and Welgelee roads.
The committee arranges the braai drums and fires, and everyone stands around the fires chatting and sharing wine and a beer or two, from 16H00 until about 19H30 when the last people pack up.
We have almost always had good weather, sometimes a bit of a chilly wind, but every one comes suitably kitted out, together with chairs, food, children, dogs and liquid refreshments.
These get-togethers are such fun as long time residents meet up, catch up (and then only get to see each other from passing cars or whilst walking their dogs) and new residents get to meet their neighbours, members of the committee, and make new friends.
In 2009 we held the braais in March and September, and this year on 18 April 2010, all of which were well attended. So, next time you get an email advising the date of the next braai, make a diary note and come along!
It's such an easy relaxed and uncomplicated way of getting to know the people who live in the neighbourhood, and for the children to get to know each other as well!
photos taken and supplied by FRENSKE OTZEN.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
We need your Help!
from Mark Day, Co-ordinator: Awareness, Census & Volunteer Work
Western Leopard Toad Conservation Committee
It has come to my attention that there is a development scheduled to start on Monday when developers will begin bulldozing the site. The area of concern consists on three large erven in Bergvleit (driving down the M3 after Firgrove bridge on the right is this huge overgrown grove of trees and shrubs).
The approval has somehow passed through the unscathed and so I am organising two big search & rescue sessions taking place tomorrow (and possible again on the weekend)
Address: 6 Barn Rd, Bergvleit (driving down Ladies Mile (over the circle towards Main rd, you will take the first right after the circle into Homestead Ave. Drive right down to the bottom of Homestead and just before the end is Barn Rd on your right. We will be meeting outside number 6 Barn Rd at 07H00am tomorrow morning and will continue on until 10 or 11. Then again from 17H00 till late.
We will be sifting through the vegetation and debris looking for reptiles, frogs and other critters.
What you need to bring are: any kind on containers with holes in the lids (ice cream; glass jars, plastic margarine containers, etc...; a hat; gloves if you feel you need them (incase we come across snakes and spiders/scorpions.)
In the evening the usual night gear like a torch, bucket; closed shoes, etc.
Also remember snacks and water as essentials for yourself!
It will be interesting to record what we find so bring a camera, clipboard, paper and pencil and we can document our findings.
THE PROPERTY IS VERY DENSE IN PARTS AND FROM WHAT I HAVE BEEN TOLD, HAS A HUB OF SMALL FAUNA ACTIVITY SO PLEASE RALLY AS MANY FRIENDS AND PEERS AS POSSIBLE FOR THIS, IT IS A BIG ONE!
Our findings will be relocated to Die Oog which is very close to the site which as probably know is a protected area.
PLEASE SMS ME YOUR NAME AND SESSION YOU ARE ATTENDING (MORNING OR EVENING) TO 0825163602.'
I look forward to seeing you there!
Many Thanks
Mark Day
WLT Hotline:0825163602
Facebook: The Endangered Western Leopard Toad
www.leopardtoad.co.za / www.toadnuts.co.za / www.toadvolunteer.ning.com
Western Leopard Toad Conservation Committee
It has come to my attention that there is a development scheduled to start on Monday when developers will begin bulldozing the site. The area of concern consists on three large erven in Bergvleit (driving down the M3 after Firgrove bridge on the right is this huge overgrown grove of trees and shrubs).
The approval has somehow passed through the unscathed and so I am organising two big search & rescue sessions taking place tomorrow (and possible again on the weekend)
Address: 6 Barn Rd, Bergvleit (driving down Ladies Mile (over the circle towards Main rd, you will take the first right after the circle into Homestead Ave. Drive right down to the bottom of Homestead and just before the end is Barn Rd on your right. We will be meeting outside number 6 Barn Rd at 07H00am tomorrow morning and will continue on until 10 or 11. Then again from 17H00 till late.
We will be sifting through the vegetation and debris looking for reptiles, frogs and other critters.
What you need to bring are: any kind on containers with holes in the lids (ice cream; glass jars, plastic margarine containers, etc...; a hat; gloves if you feel you need them (incase we come across snakes and spiders/scorpions.)
In the evening the usual night gear like a torch, bucket; closed shoes, etc.
Also remember snacks and water as essentials for yourself!
It will be interesting to record what we find so bring a camera, clipboard, paper and pencil and we can document our findings.
THE PROPERTY IS VERY DENSE IN PARTS AND FROM WHAT I HAVE BEEN TOLD, HAS A HUB OF SMALL FAUNA ACTIVITY SO PLEASE RALLY AS MANY FRIENDS AND PEERS AS POSSIBLE FOR THIS, IT IS A BIG ONE!
Our findings will be relocated to Die Oog which is very close to the site which as probably know is a protected area.
PLEASE SMS ME YOUR NAME AND SESSION YOU ARE ATTENDING (MORNING OR EVENING) TO 0825163602.'
I look forward to seeing you there!
Many Thanks
Mark Day
WLT Hotline:0825163602
Facebook: The Endangered Western Leopard Toad
www.leopardtoad.co.za / www.toadnuts.co.za / www.toadvolunteer.ning.com
Appointment of Service Provider for Baboon Management in the Cape Peninsula
CITY OF CAPE TOWN - MEDIA RELEASE - 26 JANUARY 2009
The Nature Conservation Corporation were confirmed as the successful tenderer for the provision of a baboon management program on the Cape Peninsula at a meeting of the City of Cape Town’s Bid Adjudication Committee yesterday(Monday 25 January). This is for the period 01 February – 30 June 2010.
Only two tenders were received, with that from Hlathi Security Services being declared invalid as they had not complied with the rules of the tender process.
The amount awarded was R2 149 479.16, which included VAT and a contingency of R100 000.00. It covers a range of tasks and responsibilities in relation to the employment and management of baboon monitors and other related tasks.
“I am pleased at the outcome of the tender process,” says Cllr Marian Nieuwoudt, Mayoral Committee Member for Planning and Environment. “The Nature Conservation Corporation has performed well over the past six months and there has been a marked decline in baboon/ human incidents. Their re-appointment ensures that there is continuity.”
“I am especially pleased at the technical and financial support we have received from our colleagues in National and Provincial Government, recognising that baboon management is a joint responsibility. While it is essential that baboons must be conserved to retain their role in our unique biodiversity, let us not lose sight of the value they have for the tourism industry, which in turn boosts the local economy, in addition to the social benefits of the monitoring program, which provides employment for over 50 persons”, she added.
“While all the parties are working towards the finalisation of a Baboon Management Protocol, this is a step in the right direction to find a lasting solution for the management of baboons and human conflict. It is also essential that a policy and legal framework is compiled for the management of the areas adjacent to the mountain to prevent conflict,” she concluded.
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Cllr Marian Nieuwoudt, Tel: 021 400 1307 or Cell: 084 224 0023
Stephen Granger, Manager: Strategic Projects, Environmental Resource Management Department, Tel: 021487 2236 or Cell: 084331 863
Only two tenders were received, with that from Hlathi Security Services being declared invalid as they had not complied with the rules of the tender process.
The amount awarded was R2 149 479.16, which included VAT and a contingency of R100 000.00. It covers a range of tasks and responsibilities in relation to the employment and management of baboon monitors and other related tasks.
“I am pleased at the outcome of the tender process,” says Cllr Marian Nieuwoudt, Mayoral Committee Member for Planning and Environment. “The Nature Conservation Corporation has performed well over the past six months and there has been a marked decline in baboon/ human incidents. Their re-appointment ensures that there is continuity.”
“I am especially pleased at the technical and financial support we have received from our colleagues in National and Provincial Government, recognising that baboon management is a joint responsibility. While it is essential that baboons must be conserved to retain their role in our unique biodiversity, let us not lose sight of the value they have for the tourism industry, which in turn boosts the local economy, in addition to the social benefits of the monitoring program, which provides employment for over 50 persons”, she added.
“While all the parties are working towards the finalisation of a Baboon Management Protocol, this is a step in the right direction to find a lasting solution for the management of baboons and human conflict. It is also essential that a policy and legal framework is compiled for the management of the areas adjacent to the mountain to prevent conflict,” she concluded.
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Cllr Marian Nieuwoudt, Tel: 021 400 1307 or Cell: 084 224 0023
Stephen Granger, Manager: Strategic Projects, Environmental Resource Management Department, Tel: 021487 2236 or Cell: 084331 863
City of Cape Town raises its concerns at NERSA hearings
CITY OF CAPE TOWN - MEDIA RELEASE - 20 JANUARY 2010
Alderman Ian Neilson, the City of Cape Town’s Executive Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Finance, today presented the municipality’s concerns regarding Eskom’s application for a tariff increase to the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), during one of NERSA’s hearings conducted in the Good Hope Centre.
NERSA is currently conducting country-wide hearings on the application from Eskom for an electricity price increase over the next three years. These hearings are held in addition to the call for written submissions on the tariff increase.
The City of Cape Town had already submitted comments to NERSA on Eskom’s application for a 35% tariff increase per annum over the next three years. The City’s submission is one of approximately 300 submissions received by NERSA.
During his presentation today Alderman Neilson raised four additional concerns to that made in the City’s written submission regarding Eskom’s planned tariff increase. His concerns related to:
· The rate of Eskom’s infrastructure investment,
· The effect of Eskom’s cross-subsidisation of its tariffs,
· The impact of artificially suppressing tariffs; and
· The impact of the NERSA process on municipal tariffs.
Neilson warned against an abnormally high infrastructure investment to increase generation capacity at Eskom, to the detriment of investment in other services or infrastructure and in other spheres of government.
If investment in infrastructure is not balanced across all services, the shift of funding away from investment in other services would cause these services to hinder future economic growth, he said.
In addition to this concern, Neilson said that the middle-income consumer is being hard hit by tariff increases and must carry the burden of Eskom providing lower rates for key industries and indigent people. Neilson noted that it is important to provide indigent people with affordable electricity, but said that this cannot be to the detriment of middle-income consumers. “If cross-subsidisation is not addressed, local authorities’ consumers end up with a triple subsidy load, as indigent municipal consumers must also be cross-subsidised in addition to Eskom’s indigent consumers.” The large commercial customers of Eskom must also assist in carrying the cost of cross-subsidization.
Neilson also warned that tariffs for the poor or those using a smaller amount of power must not be artificially suppressed, as this can cause a large gap between low usage tariffs and moderate usage tariffs. People who just miss the cut-off for low income households face a massive increase in their electricity bill. In this way, certain consumers will be forced to change their lifestyles due to this steep step-tariff increase.
He went on to say that NERSA must not use the Eskom application to also rule on local authorities’ tariff increases. There is significant existing local government legislation that deals with tariff setting processes and NERSA must adhere to the requirements of these legal processes, which are seperate from those of Eskom.
A copy of the City’s 13 page submission is available on request. Please respond to this e-mail or contact the Media Section on Tel: 021 400 3719
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Ald Ian Neilson, Executive Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Finance, City of Cape Town, Tel: 021 400 1306, Cell: 083 306 6730
Alderman Ian Neilson, the City of Cape Town’s Executive Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Finance, today presented the municipality’s concerns regarding Eskom’s application for a tariff increase to the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), during one of NERSA’s hearings conducted in the Good Hope Centre.
NERSA is currently conducting country-wide hearings on the application from Eskom for an electricity price increase over the next three years. These hearings are held in addition to the call for written submissions on the tariff increase.
The City of Cape Town had already submitted comments to NERSA on Eskom’s application for a 35% tariff increase per annum over the next three years. The City’s submission is one of approximately 300 submissions received by NERSA.
During his presentation today Alderman Neilson raised four additional concerns to that made in the City’s written submission regarding Eskom’s planned tariff increase. His concerns related to:
· The rate of Eskom’s infrastructure investment,
· The effect of Eskom’s cross-subsidisation of its tariffs,
· The impact of artificially suppressing tariffs; and
· The impact of the NERSA process on municipal tariffs.
Neilson warned against an abnormally high infrastructure investment to increase generation capacity at Eskom, to the detriment of investment in other services or infrastructure and in other spheres of government.
If investment in infrastructure is not balanced across all services, the shift of funding away from investment in other services would cause these services to hinder future economic growth, he said.
In addition to this concern, Neilson said that the middle-income consumer is being hard hit by tariff increases and must carry the burden of Eskom providing lower rates for key industries and indigent people. Neilson noted that it is important to provide indigent people with affordable electricity, but said that this cannot be to the detriment of middle-income consumers. “If cross-subsidisation is not addressed, local authorities’ consumers end up with a triple subsidy load, as indigent municipal consumers must also be cross-subsidised in addition to Eskom’s indigent consumers.” The large commercial customers of Eskom must also assist in carrying the cost of cross-subsidization.
Neilson also warned that tariffs for the poor or those using a smaller amount of power must not be artificially suppressed, as this can cause a large gap between low usage tariffs and moderate usage tariffs. People who just miss the cut-off for low income households face a massive increase in their electricity bill. In this way, certain consumers will be forced to change their lifestyles due to this steep step-tariff increase.
He went on to say that NERSA must not use the Eskom application to also rule on local authorities’ tariff increases. There is significant existing local government legislation that deals with tariff setting processes and NERSA must adhere to the requirements of these legal processes, which are seperate from those of Eskom.
A copy of the City’s 13 page submission is available on request. Please respond to this e-mail or contact the Media Section on Tel: 021 400 3719
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Ald Ian Neilson, Executive Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Finance, City of Cape Town, Tel: 021 400 1306, Cell: 083 306 6730
FIRGROVE AND SOETVLEI FIELDS - UPDATE
Wednesday, 2nd December 2009
Robin Carlisle is the MEC for Transport and Public Works in the Western Cape Government. At the AGM of the Constantia Property Owners Association on 10 November 2009, Mr Carlisle made three statements about the Firgrove and Soetvlei Fields:
1. OWNERSHIP OF LAND: The Provincial Government is the owner of the land and is managing it accordingly.
2. PROPOSAL FOR HOUSING: The proposal for low income housing on the two fields, as presented by the previous Western Cape Government at a public meeting on 23 October 2008, has been shelved.
3. FUTURE USE OF THE LAND: Any future use of the Firgrove and Soetvlei fields will be explored in consultation with the residents who live in the surrounding area. [It is for this reason that the Steering Group of residents continues its work, engaging with stakeholders on a solution that will have far-reaching benefits.]
We shall continue circulating information via emails as the process unfolds.
Huge Risk for Providers of 2010 Accommodation
Hotel, bed and breakfast (B&B) and home owners looking to provide accommodation to the estimated 500 000 visitors during the 2010 World Cup are opening themselves up to huge potential risks by failing to take out appropriate insurance cover..
Clint Harker, Head of Insurance at Pinion Insurance Brokers, an Aon Group Company, says that South Africans should not necessarily assume that they are covered for incidents and events that occur while renting out their homes to visiting soccer fans.”Clients face the real possibility of being sued by foreign visitors and not having any covers to meet the ensuing expenses.”
Harker points to a recent case in which a client was sued by an American family for well in excess of R20 million due to a liability claim against a South African citizen.
Harker says it is possible for people renting out their primary residences and holiday homes during the tournament to obtain liability cover that is not normally available on traditional personal lines policies.
Harker also advises that B&B and private individuals could benefit by specifying their cover for the duration of the tournament.
“It is important to be aware of how costly disruptions to services due to unforeseen circumstances could be during the four weeks of the tournament,” says Harker. Owners of hotels and B&B’s should assess whether they are covered for loss of revenue due to instances such as cancellations, staff stay-aways and failure of essential equipment such as air conditioners or heaters.
“Arranging cover for this will be particularly important for B&B’s and hotels in congested areas of Cape Town and Johannesburg; especially areas close to the soccer stadiums and fan parks, where parking is likely to cause congestion and possibly blocked entrances of premises.”
Noise pollution throughout the tournament is also likely to become a problem for establishments in areas close to major events. “Some insurance policies already include cover for noise pollution from the premises within 500 meters of the establishment. These policies may even include cover for the death or hospitalisation of “key members” (a spouse, manager or partner) of a business. However, it is dangerous to assume that these eventualities are automatically accounted for.”
Harker recommends that anyone offering accommodation during the tournament should consult with their insurance brokers to clarify whether their policy will cover them for all eventualities.
Clint Harker, Head of Insurance at Pinion Insurance Brokers, an Aon Group Company, says that South Africans should not necessarily assume that they are covered for incidents and events that occur while renting out their homes to visiting soccer fans.”Clients face the real possibility of being sued by foreign visitors and not having any covers to meet the ensuing expenses.”
Harker points to a recent case in which a client was sued by an American family for well in excess of R20 million due to a liability claim against a South African citizen.
Harker says it is possible for people renting out their primary residences and holiday homes during the tournament to obtain liability cover that is not normally available on traditional personal lines policies.
Harker also advises that B&B and private individuals could benefit by specifying their cover for the duration of the tournament.
“It is important to be aware of how costly disruptions to services due to unforeseen circumstances could be during the four weeks of the tournament,” says Harker. Owners of hotels and B&B’s should assess whether they are covered for loss of revenue due to instances such as cancellations, staff stay-aways and failure of essential equipment such as air conditioners or heaters.
“Arranging cover for this will be particularly important for B&B’s and hotels in congested areas of Cape Town and Johannesburg; especially areas close to the soccer stadiums and fan parks, where parking is likely to cause congestion and possibly blocked entrances of premises.”
Noise pollution throughout the tournament is also likely to become a problem for establishments in areas close to major events. “Some insurance policies already include cover for noise pollution from the premises within 500 meters of the establishment. These policies may even include cover for the death or hospitalisation of “key members” (a spouse, manager or partner) of a business. However, it is dangerous to assume that these eventualities are automatically accounted for.”
Harker recommends that anyone offering accommodation during the tournament should consult with their insurance brokers to clarify whether their policy will cover them for all eventualities.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Save Our Seas White Shark Centre
About this image: this photograph was taken on 28th September 2006 by the Save Our Seas White Shark Research Team while visually tracking a large white shark first identified by the Fish Hoek Shark spotter on that day the research team were at Seal island when they got a call from the Fish Hoek shark spotter that a large white shark had just entered Fish Hoek Bay.
No swimmers were in the water at the time as the law enforcement and shark spotters closed the beach while the shark was in the bay.
[photograph used with permission from Alison Kock of the Save Our Seas Shark Centre.]
Shark Attack on Fish Hoek Beach - January 2010
It is highly regrettable that, within hours of the “Shark Activity” media release, a bather was fatally attacked by a shark at Fish Hoek beach. South Peninsula subcouncil extends its condolences to Mr Skinner’s family and friends. Increased shark activity has been observed for some while by the successful Shark Spotters program, and media releases to that effect released since early December. Unfortunately, as can be seen by the “Shark warning Dec” release and “Adherence to Shark Spotters warnings Dec”, not all bathers have reacted sensibly to their warnings. An extensive review of the attack and preventative measures is being conducted by the City, the findings of which will be made public. At the same time, we appeal to all our local organisations to spread the message contained in the attached media releases for all beach users to familiarise themselves with the Shark Spotters flag system, and to take seriously warnings from them. Regards Cllr Demetri Qually Chairperson - South Peninsula subcouncil DA Councillor - Ward 64 Office 021 784 2001 Fax 0865 760 582 Cell 083 629 1326 Civic Centre, Central Circle, Fish Hoek, Private Bag X1, Fish Hoek, 7974.
Monday, November 23, 2009
City Service Delivery on track despite economic downturn
CITY OF CAPE TOWN - MEDIA RELEASE - 16 NOVEMBER 2009
After three years of record infrastructure investment in Utility Services the residents of Cape Town need have no fears that their municipal services will be curtailed says Alderman Ian Neilson, Executive Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Finance.
“In fact, the proposed investment in Utility Services (Water and Sanitation, Electricity and Solid Waste Management) this year, despite the restructuring of the City’s budget, remains an all-time record and will significantly add to the capacity of the City to enhance its service delivery,” Neilson said.
“Projects have not been cancelled; they have only been rescheduled, on average by a few months, to match available funding. This is to ensure that the City does not face the more undesirable risk of inadequate cash flow that is required for continuing operations,” Neilson said.
The existing municipal service delivery levels will be maintained. The City is reprioritizing the manner in which it implements key projects and striving to do more with less. Austerity and prudent financial management will be compelling themes in a new City management approach based on a determination to protect ratepayers from unaffordable tariff increases. Services also need to enhance their revenue collection and sharpen their pencils so that the delayed projects can be proceeded with as soon as possible.
The budget allocations to the Utility Services Directorate has doubled in the past few years - from R960 million in 2005/6 to R1.8 billion in 2009/10. A total of R3.2 billion has been invested in utilities infrastructure in the intervening three years.
“Despite the fact that the City is re-phasing 17% of capital projects for Utility Services, the budget is still the highest recorded thus far,” Neilson said.
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Ald Ian Neilson, Tel: 021 400 1306 or Cell: 083 306 6730
After three years of record infrastructure investment in Utility Services the residents of Cape Town need have no fears that their municipal services will be curtailed says Alderman Ian Neilson, Executive Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Finance.
“In fact, the proposed investment in Utility Services (Water and Sanitation, Electricity and Solid Waste Management) this year, despite the restructuring of the City’s budget, remains an all-time record and will significantly add to the capacity of the City to enhance its service delivery,” Neilson said.
“Projects have not been cancelled; they have only been rescheduled, on average by a few months, to match available funding. This is to ensure that the City does not face the more undesirable risk of inadequate cash flow that is required for continuing operations,” Neilson said.
The existing municipal service delivery levels will be maintained. The City is reprioritizing the manner in which it implements key projects and striving to do more with less. Austerity and prudent financial management will be compelling themes in a new City management approach based on a determination to protect ratepayers from unaffordable tariff increases. Services also need to enhance their revenue collection and sharpen their pencils so that the delayed projects can be proceeded with as soon as possible.
The budget allocations to the Utility Services Directorate has doubled in the past few years - from R960 million in 2005/6 to R1.8 billion in 2009/10. A total of R3.2 billion has been invested in utilities infrastructure in the intervening three years.
“Despite the fact that the City is re-phasing 17% of capital projects for Utility Services, the budget is still the highest recorded thus far,” Neilson said.
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Ald Ian Neilson, Tel: 021 400 1306 or Cell: 083 306 6730
City's diesel vehicle emissions testing a success - public urged to report smoking vehicles
CITY OF CAPE TOWN - MEDIA RELEASE - 20 NOVEMBER 2009
Statement by Councillor James Vos: Chairperson: Health Portfolio Committee, City of Cape Town
Air pollution is an urgent problem as it represents a major health risk to our citizens and creates negative perceptions about Cape Town among tourists and residents alike.
According to the Brown Haze Study of 1997, conducted by The Energy Research Group at the University of Cape Town (M Wicking-Baird et al), diesel vehicle emissions contribute to 48% of the visual degradation of the urban air quality in Cape Town. For this reason it was imperative for the City to establish a diesel vehicle emissions testing programme. In 2000 the Diesel Vehicle Testing Unit, consisting of three teams, was established. With the assistance of the City's Traffic Services and Metro Police the Unit conducts daily emission tests of diesel vehicles at various roadside testing sites.
During the year of the inception of the programme, in 2000, the failure rate was 17%. Since then, there has been a steady decline in the failure rate of vehicles tested. Currently the failure rate is 0.66%. This decrease is due to:
* Visible policing
* Fuel reformulation. The sulphur content in diesel decreased from 5500ppm in 2000 to 500ppm in 2006.
* New engine technology
* Improved maintenance programmes by major fleet owners
The change in the composition of both commercial and private vehicles operating in the city, as the average age of vehicles decreased from 14 years to 12 years since the year 2000.
International research has shown that 20% of vehicles are poorly maintained. Such vehicles contribute to 70% of the total contribution of vehicle smoke (48%) to poor urban air quality.
In line with international trends the City started a programme to gradually decrease the failure threshold for smoking vehicles over a period of time. The current proposal is contained in the draft Air Quality Management By-law which has been made available for public comment.
According to the draft by-law the failure threshold will decrease from 60 Hartridge Smoke Units (HSU) to 50HSU for naturally aspirated compression ignition engines (diesel powered engines) and from 66HSU to 56HSU for turbocharged compression ignition engines. At present, approximately 20% of all diesel vehicles tested register smoke readings above these respective proposed thresholds. These proposed new measures should bring about a further reduction in the level of brown haze in the city.
Within the City of Cape Town, a programme has been established to regularly test all City-owned diesel vehicles for emissions compliance.
In its quest to decrease the number of polluting vehicles on the road, the City has started a programme to test diesel vehicle fleets of major fleet owners free of charge. The emissions testing is carried out at the fleet owners’ premises and affords the owner an opportunity to proactively assess and repair vehicles before they are stopped and summonsed at a roadside testing site. The City also implemented a voluntary roadside testing program in June and members of the public were encouraged, without fear of prosecution, to submit their vehicles for testing.
During the past two years the City has been assisting other local authorities - such as the eThekweni, Nelson Mandela and Sedibeng Municipalities - in implementing diesel vehicle testing programmes. Various workshops were conducted to train officials and guide the management of those municipalities in establishing diesel emissions testing units.
We would like to encourage members of the public to report badly smoking vehicles to the City so that the necessary follow-up action can be implemented to force the owners of these vehicles to carry out the necessary repairs.
Smoking vehicles can be reported to the City’s Air Quality Management Unit during office hours on 021 590 1419. The following information must be supplied when making such a report:
The name of the complainant with contact telephone number
The registration number of the vehicle (not of the trailer being towed)
Make of vehicle
Type of vehicle i.e. truck, bakkie or sedan
The name of the road on which it was travelling
The direction of travel
The area.
Time
Date
We encourage all members of the public to assist us with this important task. Both private and fleet owners of diesel vehicles are requested to ensure that their vehicles are serviced regularly and maintained in a good state of tune at all times so as to contribute positively to improving Cape Town’s air quality.
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Cllr James Vos. Tel: 021 590 1680 Cell: 083 640 7640
Statement by Councillor James Vos: Chairperson: Health Portfolio Committee, City of Cape Town
Air pollution is an urgent problem as it represents a major health risk to our citizens and creates negative perceptions about Cape Town among tourists and residents alike.
According to the Brown Haze Study of 1997, conducted by The Energy Research Group at the University of Cape Town (M Wicking-Baird et al), diesel vehicle emissions contribute to 48% of the visual degradation of the urban air quality in Cape Town. For this reason it was imperative for the City to establish a diesel vehicle emissions testing programme. In 2000 the Diesel Vehicle Testing Unit, consisting of three teams, was established. With the assistance of the City's Traffic Services and Metro Police the Unit conducts daily emission tests of diesel vehicles at various roadside testing sites.
During the year of the inception of the programme, in 2000, the failure rate was 17%. Since then, there has been a steady decline in the failure rate of vehicles tested. Currently the failure rate is 0.66%. This decrease is due to:
* Visible policing
* Fuel reformulation. The sulphur content in diesel decreased from 5500ppm in 2000 to 500ppm in 2006.
* New engine technology
* Improved maintenance programmes by major fleet owners
The change in the composition of both commercial and private vehicles operating in the city, as the average age of vehicles decreased from 14 years to 12 years since the year 2000.
International research has shown that 20% of vehicles are poorly maintained. Such vehicles contribute to 70% of the total contribution of vehicle smoke (48%) to poor urban air quality.
In line with international trends the City started a programme to gradually decrease the failure threshold for smoking vehicles over a period of time. The current proposal is contained in the draft Air Quality Management By-law which has been made available for public comment.
According to the draft by-law the failure threshold will decrease from 60 Hartridge Smoke Units (HSU) to 50HSU for naturally aspirated compression ignition engines (diesel powered engines) and from 66HSU to 56HSU for turbocharged compression ignition engines. At present, approximately 20% of all diesel vehicles tested register smoke readings above these respective proposed thresholds. These proposed new measures should bring about a further reduction in the level of brown haze in the city.
Within the City of Cape Town, a programme has been established to regularly test all City-owned diesel vehicles for emissions compliance.
In its quest to decrease the number of polluting vehicles on the road, the City has started a programme to test diesel vehicle fleets of major fleet owners free of charge. The emissions testing is carried out at the fleet owners’ premises and affords the owner an opportunity to proactively assess and repair vehicles before they are stopped and summonsed at a roadside testing site. The City also implemented a voluntary roadside testing program in June and members of the public were encouraged, without fear of prosecution, to submit their vehicles for testing.
During the past two years the City has been assisting other local authorities - such as the eThekweni, Nelson Mandela and Sedibeng Municipalities - in implementing diesel vehicle testing programmes. Various workshops were conducted to train officials and guide the management of those municipalities in establishing diesel emissions testing units.
We would like to encourage members of the public to report badly smoking vehicles to the City so that the necessary follow-up action can be implemented to force the owners of these vehicles to carry out the necessary repairs.
Smoking vehicles can be reported to the City’s Air Quality Management Unit during office hours on 021 590 1419. The following information must be supplied when making such a report:
The name of the complainant with contact telephone number
The registration number of the vehicle (not of the trailer being towed)
Make of vehicle
Type of vehicle i.e. truck, bakkie or sedan
The name of the road on which it was travelling
The direction of travel
The area.
Time
Date
We encourage all members of the public to assist us with this important task. Both private and fleet owners of diesel vehicles are requested to ensure that their vehicles are serviced regularly and maintained in a good state of tune at all times so as to contribute positively to improving Cape Town’s air quality.
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Cllr James Vos. Tel: 021 590 1680 Cell: 083 640 7640
Monday, November 16, 2009
CPF Community Put-foot Walkathon 2009
The Community Police Forum consists of organisations and institutions working in partnership with the local police. The aim is to guide and encourage a safe and secure environment for citizens living within the CPF area.
The Walkathon was a fundraiser in aid of the Kirstenhof Community Police Forum.
Photographs supplied by Frenske Otzen
Sunday, November 15, 2009
The First Opening of the Cape Town 2010 Soccer Stadium - 14 November 09
The Cape Town 2010 Soccer Stadium in Greenpoint was opened last night by Premier Helen Zille and Executive Mayor Dan Plato, along with the team from WBHO and Murray & Roberts, for the official 'roof-wetting' ceremony.
What is usually an informal braai as a roof-wetting to any new building, turned out to be quite a spectacular evening for 2000 people. The contractors and representatives from the various professional teams were in attendance - Entertained by the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Richard Cock, Mezzo Suprano Magdalene Minnaar, The Twenty Tennors, Neal Prinz and the Sterling Electric Quartet.
These are some of the first photographs of the inside of the Cape Town 2010 Soccer Stadium.
The official hand-over to the City of Cape Town will be on Monday, 14th December 2009. In the Premier's own words, "Good Job! I knew I could trust this team."
Well done, City of Cape Town!
Photographs courtesy of Union Structural Engineering, taken by Norah Papanicolaou.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Residents can comment on Draft Problem Building By-law at public hearing
CITY OF CAPE TOWN - MEDIA RELEASE - 09 NOVEMBER 2009
Residents will have a further opportunity to comment on the City of Cape Town’s draft Problem Building By-law that provides for the identification, control and management of dilapidated and problem buildings at a public hearing on 30 November 2009.
Badly neglected buildings and abandoned erven are increasingly becoming a problem as well as the cause for the rise in complaints in this regard, across the city. These buildings are unsightly, unhealthy and often unsafe because of associated anti-social behaviour and criminal activities.
While existing legislation on dilapidated buildings is adequate, there are practical difficulties implementing it. More often than not, the owners of the buildings cannot be traced or have died or the bond holders have abandoned the properties. There are usually large sums of money owing to the City.
These buildings are often occupied illegally or are being rented out illegally by people who do not own them.
Through the proposed by-law the City of Cape Town intends identifying, controlling and managing problem buildings in the formal areas within its area of jurisdiction to ensure that compliance of the by-law by owners and tenants of such buildings.
The proposed Problem Building By-law will assist City officials in:
· Formulating a plan to counter problem buildings and defining the necessary processes and procedures
· Turning problem buildings around by restoring and renovating the buildings rather than demolishing them
· Consulting the owners about redeveloping the property where problem buildings can’t be restored
· Facilitating the sale or demolition of problem buildings to achieve compliance with the by-law
The City acknowledges that many of its residents live in informal settlements and it will thus not require structures in such areas to comply with the by-law.
Public hearing
The Planning and Building Development Management Department will be hosting a one day public hearing on Monday 30 November in the Council Chamber, 44 Wale Street, Cape Town. Commencing at 09:00 it will give representatives from ratepayers associations, interest groups and concerned individuals the opportunity to make representations on the draft by-law.
The closing date for submissions for the public hearing will be Tuesday 24 November 2009.For enquiries and to reserve a time slot at the public hearing please contact Michelle Viney Tel 021 400 2399, Fax 021 425 6495 or e-mail Problembuilding.Bylaw@capetown.gov.za
The closing date for submission of written comment is 07 December 2009.
Copies of the draft by-law are available at the City’s District Planning Offices, Libraries and Subcouncil Offices. It can be viewed via the web link: http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/ByLaws
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Marius Lourens, Building Control Officer, Tel: 021400 1802 or Cell: 084 432 2574
Residents will have a further opportunity to comment on the City of Cape Town’s draft Problem Building By-law that provides for the identification, control and management of dilapidated and problem buildings at a public hearing on 30 November 2009.
Badly neglected buildings and abandoned erven are increasingly becoming a problem as well as the cause for the rise in complaints in this regard, across the city. These buildings are unsightly, unhealthy and often unsafe because of associated anti-social behaviour and criminal activities.
While existing legislation on dilapidated buildings is adequate, there are practical difficulties implementing it. More often than not, the owners of the buildings cannot be traced or have died or the bond holders have abandoned the properties. There are usually large sums of money owing to the City.
These buildings are often occupied illegally or are being rented out illegally by people who do not own them.
Through the proposed by-law the City of Cape Town intends identifying, controlling and managing problem buildings in the formal areas within its area of jurisdiction to ensure that compliance of the by-law by owners and tenants of such buildings.
The proposed Problem Building By-law will assist City officials in:
· Formulating a plan to counter problem buildings and defining the necessary processes and procedures
· Turning problem buildings around by restoring and renovating the buildings rather than demolishing them
· Consulting the owners about redeveloping the property where problem buildings can’t be restored
· Facilitating the sale or demolition of problem buildings to achieve compliance with the by-law
The City acknowledges that many of its residents live in informal settlements and it will thus not require structures in such areas to comply with the by-law.
Public hearing
The Planning and Building Development Management Department will be hosting a one day public hearing on Monday 30 November in the Council Chamber, 44 Wale Street, Cape Town. Commencing at 09:00 it will give representatives from ratepayers associations, interest groups and concerned individuals the opportunity to make representations on the draft by-law.
The closing date for submissions for the public hearing will be Tuesday 24 November 2009.For enquiries and to reserve a time slot at the public hearing please contact Michelle Viney Tel 021 400 2399, Fax 021 425 6495 or e-mail Problembuilding.Bylaw@capetown.gov.za
The closing date for submission of written comment is 07 December 2009.
Copies of the draft by-law are available at the City’s District Planning Offices, Libraries and Subcouncil Offices. It can be viewed via the web link: http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/ByLaws
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Marius Lourens, Building Control Officer, Tel: 021400 1802 or Cell: 084 432 2574
Thursday, November 5, 2009
City Extends Deadline for Comment on Draft Spatial Development Framework
CITY OF CAPE TOWN - MEDIA RELEASE - 04 NOVEMBER 2009
The public participation process is currently underway in respect of a range of City of Cape Town draft plans and policies that will guide the future development of Cape Town. It includes a draft Cape Town Spatial Development Framework, draft Spatial Development Plans/Environmental Management Frameworks for each of Cape Town’s eight planning districts, a draft Densification Strategy and a draft Development Edges Policy.
At the request of civic organizations in Cape Town, the deadline for public comments on these draft plans and policies has been extended until 30 November. Interested members of the public now have until then to comment.
Alderman Brian Watkyns, Chairperson of the Planning and Environment Portfolio Committee, said: “To date, the City has held 44 meetings to present and discuss the draft proposals contained in these draft plans and planning policies with the public. These meetings have included open days in each of the sub-councils as well as district and city-wide stakeholder workshops. The City would like to thank the public for its enthusiastic participation in these events and the contributions made to date towards achieving this very important goal.”
The draft Spatial Development Framework (SDF) sets out the City’s strategies and policies about how and where Cape Town should develop in the future, and is a required part of Cape Town’s Integrated Development Plan.
In support of the SDF, the City has also prepared:
a draft Densification Strategy
a draft Development Edges Policy
Integrated Draft Spatial Development Plans/Environmental Management
Frameworks for each of the City’s eight planning districts
These district plans identify:
a spatial vision per district
what should inform development in that district
what should be protected
where new development should be planned and implemented
where there should be change to the existing urban environment and what this change should be
“It is anticipated that the SDF will be submitted to Council and the Provincial Government of the Western Cape for approval next year once the public participation processes are complete and the SDF has been redrafted to incorporate the input and comments received,” says Catherine Stone, the City’s Director: Spatial Planning and Design. “The supporting plans and policies will also be submitted to the Council for approval when the public participation processes are complete.”
Once approved, the SDF and the district Spatial Development Plans and Environmental Management Frameworks will enable the City to replace the existing Guide Plans approved in terms of the Physical Planning Act as well as, where appropriate, to review, update and replace historic (five years or older) existing Structure Plans for the Cape Town jurisdictional area approved in terms of s 4(6) of the Land Use Planning Ordinance.
All the draft plans are available for public viewing at the City’s subcouncil offices, libraries and Planning & Building Development Management Department district offices. They are also available for download at http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/sdf/
Questions and comments can be sent to futurecapetown@capetown.gov.za, PO Box 4511, Cape Town 8000 or faxed to 021 425 4327.
Alderman Watkyns said: “Spatial planning aims to positively shape the way Cape Town develops in the next few decades. It includes the preparation of plans that will guide the physical development of Cape Town (where, what and when).
“Spatial plans are used to assess applications submitted by property developers. They also guide changes in land-use rights and guide public investment in infrastructure.
“The implementation of these plans relies on partnerships between the private sector, communities and other spheres of government.
“An SDF is therefore a useful and effective tool with which to manage and monitor growth and development in the city, and informs investors about what they are ‘buying’ and where development opportunities exist in the short and longer term.
“It will offer predictability, as once it has been approved by the full Council and the Provincial Government of the Western Cape, it will be the basis on which City officials decide on new development proposals.
“The City sincerely looks forward to your comments and inputs on these important draft policies aimed at guiding development in Cape Town towards a sustainable future. Your comments and inputs must reach us by no later than close of business on Monday 30 November 2009,” Watkyns said.
Further information please visit the City's Spatial Development Framework website –http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/sdf
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Catherine Stone, Tel: 021 400 3263 or Cell: 084 577 4846
Ald. Brian Watkyns, Tel: 021 531 3716 or Cell: 083 444 4807
The public participation process is currently underway in respect of a range of City of Cape Town draft plans and policies that will guide the future development of Cape Town. It includes a draft Cape Town Spatial Development Framework, draft Spatial Development Plans/Environmental Management Frameworks for each of Cape Town’s eight planning districts, a draft Densification Strategy and a draft Development Edges Policy.
At the request of civic organizations in Cape Town, the deadline for public comments on these draft plans and policies has been extended until 30 November. Interested members of the public now have until then to comment.
Alderman Brian Watkyns, Chairperson of the Planning and Environment Portfolio Committee, said: “To date, the City has held 44 meetings to present and discuss the draft proposals contained in these draft plans and planning policies with the public. These meetings have included open days in each of the sub-councils as well as district and city-wide stakeholder workshops. The City would like to thank the public for its enthusiastic participation in these events and the contributions made to date towards achieving this very important goal.”
The draft Spatial Development Framework (SDF) sets out the City’s strategies and policies about how and where Cape Town should develop in the future, and is a required part of Cape Town’s Integrated Development Plan.
In support of the SDF, the City has also prepared:
a draft Densification Strategy
a draft Development Edges Policy
Integrated Draft Spatial Development Plans/Environmental Management
Frameworks for each of the City’s eight planning districts
These district plans identify:
a spatial vision per district
what should inform development in that district
what should be protected
where new development should be planned and implemented
where there should be change to the existing urban environment and what this change should be
“It is anticipated that the SDF will be submitted to Council and the Provincial Government of the Western Cape for approval next year once the public participation processes are complete and the SDF has been redrafted to incorporate the input and comments received,” says Catherine Stone, the City’s Director: Spatial Planning and Design. “The supporting plans and policies will also be submitted to the Council for approval when the public participation processes are complete.”
Once approved, the SDF and the district Spatial Development Plans and Environmental Management Frameworks will enable the City to replace the existing Guide Plans approved in terms of the Physical Planning Act as well as, where appropriate, to review, update and replace historic (five years or older) existing Structure Plans for the Cape Town jurisdictional area approved in terms of s 4(6) of the Land Use Planning Ordinance.
All the draft plans are available for public viewing at the City’s subcouncil offices, libraries and Planning & Building Development Management Department district offices. They are also available for download at http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/sdf/
Questions and comments can be sent to futurecapetown@capetown.gov.za, PO Box 4511, Cape Town 8000 or faxed to 021 425 4327.
Alderman Watkyns said: “Spatial planning aims to positively shape the way Cape Town develops in the next few decades. It includes the preparation of plans that will guide the physical development of Cape Town (where, what and when).
“Spatial plans are used to assess applications submitted by property developers. They also guide changes in land-use rights and guide public investment in infrastructure.
“The implementation of these plans relies on partnerships between the private sector, communities and other spheres of government.
“An SDF is therefore a useful and effective tool with which to manage and monitor growth and development in the city, and informs investors about what they are ‘buying’ and where development opportunities exist in the short and longer term.
“It will offer predictability, as once it has been approved by the full Council and the Provincial Government of the Western Cape, it will be the basis on which City officials decide on new development proposals.
“The City sincerely looks forward to your comments and inputs on these important draft policies aimed at guiding development in Cape Town towards a sustainable future. Your comments and inputs must reach us by no later than close of business on Monday 30 November 2009,” Watkyns said.
Further information please visit the City's Spatial Development Framework website –http://www.capetown.gov.za/en/sdf
End
Issued by: Communication Department, City of Cape Town
Media enquiries: Catherine Stone, Tel: 021 400 3263 or Cell: 084 577 4846
Ald. Brian Watkyns, Tel: 021 531 3716 or Cell: 083 444 4807
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
2010 Soccer Stadium - Cape Town
These are the latest photographs of the Cape Town Soccer Stadium in Green Point.
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