KAYLYNN PALM
The organisers of Open Streets have confirmed that the event will take place in Mitchell’s Plain in April and will have its public engagement session on Thursday February 18 in Merrydale Avenue.
The session will include a walk along Merrydale Avenue as part of the Talking Streets series.
Open Streets operations manager Rebecca Campbell said thanks to the support of the City of Cape Town and following on from the success of Open Streets Bree on January 17 this year and Langa and Bellville in 2015, Mitchell’s Plain will have its first Open Streets day in April.
“The concept is very simple. We create a road closure so that for a number of hours people can move freely and safely and experience the space in a completely different way. It is an invitation to residents and visitors to enjoy the chance to play, dance, cycle, skate and more on a car-free street,” said Ms Campbell.
She said the aim of the public engagement session is to discuss the possibilities, challenges and ideas that can ensure success in April. This will be followed by two public meetings in March and a series of community planning sessions closer to the day.
“We will be knocking on many doors along the route in the coming weeks to ensure everyone takes part in the making of the day. Open Streets Mitchell’s Plain is possible thanks to the financial and strategic support of Transport for Cape Town and we are working closely with them to develop a model that can enable a city-wide long-term Open Streets programme.
“This will take some time; but in the meanwhile we look forward to working with many other communities to explore possibilities and ideas so we can incorporate them all into our long-term planning,” said Ms Campbell.
Email info@openstreets.co.za or call 021 286 0823 to join the public engagement session.