A photograph taken by engineering manager Greg Coelen, which he says shows cyclists climbing around the side of a gate on Chapman’s Peak Drive on Sunday morning August 11. The photo was also published on the Chapman’s Peak Drive Facebook page.
Cyclists and runners are putting their lives at risk by slipping around gates and ignoring signage on Chapman’s Peak Drive, where a 24-hour stop-and-go is in effect for roadworks, say contractors
According to the Chapman’s Peak Drive website, the stop-and-go, which has been in effect since Friday August 2, is necessary to repair recent storm damage as well as damage caused by the mudslides in September last year. Work includes fixing and replacing fences, stabilising slopes and improving signage.
The contractors, Entilini Concession, are also doing drilling on a section of the route.
However, engineering manager Greg Coelen said the project was being hampered by cyclists and runners.
“We have an ongoing issue where cyclists continue to use the road and flagrantly disregard any traffic rules that are posted on our website. The most recent incident was last Sunday morning August 11, around 8am,” he said, noting that he had photographed some cyclists climbing around the side of a gate.
There are two sets of gates that the contractors close on Chapman’s Peak Drive for weather and repair-related issues.
Mr Coelen said they had been in contact with the Pedal Power Association SA, which had tried to remind the cyclists to obey signage.
“When a cyclist is injured then there is a huge outcry, but they are their own worst enemy,“ Mr Coelen said.
“As we are not law enforcement, all we can do is capture footage of them and give it to the cycling associations to deal with them.”
A post on Chapman’s Peak Drive Facebook page on Sunday about the issue drew more than 100 comments.
“They think they own the road,” said Stephen Bell.
“The same people who are the first to moan when they are injured,“ said Mark Joubert.
“Typical road cyclist behaviour. They are the most self-righteous sportsmen I've ever come across,” added Brandon Fyfe.
Provincial Mobility Department spokesperson Muneera Allie said they were “looking into” the issue.
The roadworks are expected to last for the whole of August with the route expected to reopen in the first week of September, according to Mr Coelen.
Neil Robinson, CEO of the Pedal Power Association SA, said: “We are constantly asking cyclists to respect other road users and to adhere to the rules of the road along Chapman’s Peak Drive. We are also assisting in bringing those to justice who do not obey the rules of the road and cause harm to cyclists – be it cars, buses or motorcycles. We have always advocated for common respect, patience and to follow the traffic laws.“