Western Cape Lowers R44 Speed Limit in Betty’s Bay to Enhance Road Safety

In a decisive move to improve road safety and accommodate increasing pedestrian and tourist activity, the Western Cape Provincial Government has officially announced the reduction of the speed limit on a section of the R44 highway through Betty’s Bay. The speed limit will be lowered from 80 km/h to 60 km/h along the busy commercial corridor known as “The Hub” and near the entrance of the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens.

The announcement comes after a formal request was submitted by local stakeholders to the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure, citing safety concerns for both residents and visitors. The Department subsequently launched an investigation to assess traffic patterns, road usage, and pedestrian safety needs.

Following a consultative meeting with local councillors and community stakeholders, MEC for Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers confirmed that the department had found sufficient justification to implement the change.

“I am pleased that my department and the Department of Mobility could collaborate to address the real concerns raised by the community,” said Simmers. “The new speed limit signage will be installed soon.”

Speed Limit to Curb Risk in High-Activity Zone

Betty’s Bay, located within the Overstrand Municipality, is a popular tourist destination nestled within the Kogelberg Biosphere. It features natural attractions like the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens and Stony Point Penguin Colony. The section of the R44 in question cuts through a frequently trafficked area with a mix of commercial activity and pedestrian movement, especially during holiday seasons.

MEC Simmers emphasized that the 60 km/h limit is a legal maximum, not a recommended or safe average, and urged motorists to drive with caution regardless of posted signage.

“The speed limit is not a target. Motorists must always drive responsibly and adjust their speed according to actual road and weather conditions,” he said.

Safer Roads for Residents and Tourists

Echoing this sentiment, Western Cape MEC for Mobility Isaac Sileku stressed that the primary aim of the change is to protect lives and promote safer access.

“This adjustment prioritizes the safety of residents, business owners, and tourists who frequent this section of road,” Sileku said. “It also demonstrates effective interdepartmental collaboration between Infrastructure and Mobility.”

He added that safer roads are essential not only for reducing accidents but also for maintaining the province’s reputation as a safe and tourist-friendly destination.

Infrastructure Planning for Growing Communities

Simmers also pointed to broader demographic and economic trends influencing road policy in smaller towns like Betty’s Bay.

“As towns grow and attract more residents and tourists, the surrounding infrastructure must evolve accordingly. Tourism plays a significant role in our local economies, and with it comes a responsibility to ensure that road networks are both accessible and safe,” he stated.

The MEC also noted that road safety and infrastructure development are closely tied to economic growth and job creation, particularly in areas where tourism is a primary source of income.

Community Welcomes Decision

Local stakeholders, including residents, environmental groups, and small business owners, have welcomed the speed reduction as a long-awaited safety intervention.

“We’ve seen far too many near-misses and reckless speeding through this stretch,” said a local shop owner in The Hub. “Lowering the speed limit gives both locals and visitors a greater sense of security, especially when crossing the road or navigating tight turns.”

Environmental groups have also backed the decision, noting that lower traffic speeds can help protect local wildlife, particularly the endangered African penguin population and baboons often spotted in the area.

Implementation and Enforcement

While an exact timeline for the installation of new signage has not been released, both provincial departments have assured the public that enforcement will follow swiftly once the signs are in place. Local law enforcement and provincial traffic officers will be briefed to ensure compliance with the updated limits.

Motorists traveling through Betty’s Bay are advised to remain alert for upcoming signage and adjust their driving accordingly.

Broader Implications for Western Cape

The R44 adjustment is part of a broader initiative by the provincial government to prioritize road safety in emerging and tourism-heavy communities. Authorities are currently reviewing similar requests from other municipalities and conducting risk assessments on other regional routes.

“We are building a Western Cape that supports safe, inclusive growth,” concluded Simmers. “Good roads are not just about getting from point A to B—they’re about connecting people, supporting livelihoods, and safeguarding our communities.”