A collision involving an electric scooter on the Sea Point Promenade has reignited concerns around safety in one of Cape Town’s most popular public spaces, after a young child was seriously injured in an incident that has drawn attention to the growing presence of high-speed devices in pedestrian areas.
The incident took place on the evening of 1 April when two young girls were knocked over by an electric scooter while walking along the Sea Point Promenade, a space widely used by families, runners and tourists. One of the children, aged 7, sustained serious injuries and required hospital treatment.
Beyond the physical injuries, the emotional impact has also been significant. According to the parent, the child has since expressed fear about returning to the Promenade, raising concerns about whether the area still provides a safe environment for children and families.
The parent has since engaged with both the e-scooter operator and local authorities, emphasising that the issue extends beyond a single incident. He clarified that the intention is not to target a specific company, but rather to raise awareness around broader safety risks associated with the increasing number of electric scooters operating in pedestrian-heavy areas.
Ward councillor Nicola Jowell confirmed that the City is aware of the growing concerns. She explained that current legislation does not prohibit the use of scooters and similar electric devices on the Promenade, limiting the ability of Law Enforcement to intervene unless reckless or negligent behaviour can be clearly established.
A public participation process conducted in 2021 received more than 2 000 responses, with the majority opposing a complete ban on such devices. As a result, the City adopted a shared-use model, allowing both pedestrians and scooter users to occupy the space.
However, since then, the landscape has changed. The introduction of additional rental operators has significantly increased the number of scooters on the Promenade, leading to more frequent incidents and close calls.
Jowell noted that Law Enforcement officers and City Park Rangers have increased their presence in the area, engaging with users and cautioning against speeding. Despite these efforts, she acknowledged that the situation may now require stronger oversight and updated regulations.
The incident has renewed calls for clearer guidelines, improved enforcement, and increased public awareness to ensure that shared public spaces remain safe for all users.
Source: Cape Town Etc – Aiden Daries
