R1.7 million track for Langa and Bridgetown/Bonteheuwel

Langa’s new recreational feature is officially pumping with riders

Published by Sarah du Toit on December 18, 2022

This weekend, the City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department officially opened the new Langa pump track to riders.

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Also read: Bicycles are taking Langa by storm, one Cloudy Delivery at a time

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Construction on the pump track, which is situated on the border between the Langa and Bridgetown/Bonteheuwel areas, started at the end of March last year.

A pump track is a planned route of asphalt berms and turns that includes a looped series of rollers and berms for bike riders.

Riders enjoy the new pump track. Picture: City of Cape Town

“The track is a hub of activity for a variety of wheeled vehicles, including bicycles, skateboards, scooters, and more. The R1.7 million track has been designed in such a way that international pump track events can be held there,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.

The ground is layered with a French drainage system, a recycled milling layer, and finished with a layer of specialised asphalt surfacing.

Luthando James shows off his skill. Picture: City of Cape Town

This year (2022-23), a ward allocation of R500 000 will be used for the construction of an entrance pathway, an extension of hard surfacing around the track, and an avenue of large trees.

The specialist pump track contractor significantly reduced their costs; large savings resulted from the use of recycled milling material and the reduced cost of trees supplied by the Newlands Nursery.

“The track is an opportunity for the Recreation and Parks Department to promote cycling in a safe space within the community and create fun and exciting experiences, especially for the youth. Road cycling already exists in Langa, and the pump track will also focus on BMX biking,” said Councillor Van der Ross.

Other areas that have a pump track include the Princess Vlei Eco Centre.

“Investing in sports and recreation facilities is important as it exposes young people to healthy activities and different types of sport. It’s also an investment in the community, as it provides a space for leisure. In addition, bicycling creates entrepreneurial opportunities for organisations and small businesses associated with the sport,” added Councillor Van der Ross.

Rules regarding the use of the track are displayed at the facility, and safety gear is a requirement.

Emmanuel Kostile and Afikile Noholoza intend to make full use of the new pump track in Langa. Picture: City of Cape Town

Fixed bicycle parking is not available at the facility at this stage, and an assessment regarding this will be done once the track is operational to determine the need.

The Recreation and Parks Department will purchase a limited number of bicycles for use on the track and partner with the Langa Bicycle Hub organisation based at the facility to assist with Learn-To-Cycle programmes.