Oppose the Proposed 3-Storey Parking Development That Will Increase Congestion

We, a united coalition of the private sector, individuals, and civic society groups including Young Urbanists, the Active Mobility Forum, and Stellenbosch Fietsry, call upon the Stellenbosch Municipality to halt the premature public participation process and reconsider the proposed development of a new 3-storey parking facility at Erven 1962-RE, 1969-1976, 1954, 6402, and 6636 in the CBD's heart.

Help us tell the Municipality that we want option 02, not option 01! This will kill the local economy as it will put our town in even more congestion and roads and more people are key to solving congestion and increasing the town's livability.  

 

 

While signing and sharing this petition will help, what we need from you is to share the following:

1. Share this why and how-to note to your WhatsApp groups, Facebook and even your Ouma - there is an email template and all!
2. Sign our letter to the Municipality and Mayor - go to the bottom and sign
3. Repeat all 2 steps until the 26th of February! 

Key Reasons to Oppose:

1. Inadequate Feasibility Study: The proposal is based on overly simplistic "desktop research" lacking a multidisciplinary assessment and detailed transportation impact analysis, particularly in alleviating traffic congestion claims.
2. Contradiction to Municipality Policies: The development undermines Stellenbosch's approved policies, including the Spatial Development Framework 2019, Comprehensive Integrated Development Transportation Plan 2022-2026, and Non-Motorized Transportation Master Plan 2020, which prioritize sustainable urban mobility and reduced car dependency.
3. Global Best Practices Ignored: The project disregards global best practices in urban planning and mobility management, which advocate for enhancing public transportation, adopting complete streets policies, promoting non-motorized transport, and leveraging smart mobility solutions.

Our Demands:

1. Immediate Halt to Public Participation Process: Given the project's contradictions with existing policies and the lack of a comprehensive feasibility study, the process is premature.
2. Reevaluation of the Project: Consider alternative solutions that align with Stellenbosch's policy frameworks and global best practices for urban development and congestion management.
3.  Engagement in Constructive Dialogue: Open channels for dialogue with stakeholders to explore sustainable alternatives that support a vibrant, accessible, and environmentally friendly urban environment.

Proposed Alternatives:

 

 

1. Peripheral Park-and-Ride Facilities: Develop outside CBD parking solutions to encourage the use of public transport and reduce congestion.
2. Investment in NMT and Public Transport: Prioritize the Non-Motorized Transportation Master Plan's implementation and support innovative mobility solutions like electrical bike-sharing schemes.

By signing this petition, you voice your support for sustainable urban planning, active mobility, and the well-being of our community, urging the Stellenbosch Municipality to align development projects with the town's long-term vision for reduced car dependency and enhanced livability.

Join us in advocating for a greener, healthier, and economically thriving Stellenbosch.

Yours in sustainable development and active mobility,

Roland Postma and Team