Cape Town is considering peak-hour road charges, tighter parking controls and more priority lanes for public transport as part of a plan to reduce traffic congestion.

The city council recently approved a revised Travel Demand Management strategy aimed at changing how residents travel.

The plan focuses on reducing the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road, particularly during busy morning and afternoon periods.

Instead of relying only on expensive new roads, the City wants to make better use of existing transport infrastructure and encourage commuters to use shared or public transport.

The strategy outlines possible interventions. It does not mean congestion charges or major parking restrictions will be introduced immediately.

Peak-hour charges being considered

One proposal involves charging motorists to enter certain congested areas during peak periods.

The City would still need to conduct detailed studies before introducing any congestion-pricing system.

This would include determining where charges could apply, how much motorists might pay and whether public transport alternatives are available.

The strategy also considers stricter parking controls.

These could involve reducing parking requirements for new developments, limiting parking supply in busy areas and reviewing how parking is priced.

The aim is to discourage unnecessary private-car trips while supporting development close to public transport routes.

More space for taxis and buses

Cape Town is also considering expanding lanes that prioritise vehicles carrying more passengers.

These could serve minibus taxis, buses, lift clubs and other high-occupancy vehicles.

The City’s strategy says priority lanes can move more people using the same amount of road space.

Park-and-ride facilities at bus and railway stations could also be expanded, allowing motorists to complete part of their journey on public transport.

Flexible work could ease peak traffic

Employers may also be encouraged to introduce flexible hours, remote work or staggered starting times.

The City believes fewer people travelling at the same time could reduce pressure on major routes.

Cape Town’s sprawling layout and long distances between many residential and employment areas contribute to severe peak-hour congestion.

The approved strategy sets out a broad direction rather than final rules.

Individual measures will still require further planning, consultation, funding and approval before they can be implemented.