Chapman’s Peak Drive in Cape Town will be closed to all traffic on Wednesdays from 10:00 to 16:00 between 4 February and 25 March 2026.
Chapman’s Peak Drive/Tim Johnson/Unsplash
According to travelnews.africa, authorities have confirmed that Chapman’s Peak Drive, the nine-kilometre coastal route linking Hout Bay and Noordhoek, will be closed weekly during the specified period to facilitate environmental management work.
The closures will take place every Wednesday between 10:00 and 16:00. The work is being conducted to remove invasive alien plant species that pose a threat to indigenous fynbos, water resources and slope stability along the route. The clearing operation forms part of an ongoing conservation programme aimed at protecting the biodiversity of the Cape Peninsula. Invasive vegetation is known to increase fire risk and reduce groundwater availability if not managed.
During the closure hours, no vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians will be permitted to access Chapman’s Peak Drive. Authorities have advised road users to plan alternative routes and allow additional travel time when commuting between the Atlantic Seaboard and the southern suburbs.
The road will remain open outside the designated closure times, subject to normal operating conditions.
Alternative routes
Motorists are advised to use the following routes while Chapman’s Peak Drive is closed:
- Ou Kaapse Weg (M64): Connecting Noordhoek with Constantia and the southern suburbs.
- Silvermine Road: Providing local access on the western side of the reserve.
- Main Road via Fish Hoek (M6): A longer coastal route linking False Bay suburbs with Hout Bay via surrounding road networks.
Environmental context
Chapman’s Peak Drive passes through a protected natural area within the Cape Floral Kingdom. The removal of invasive alien vegetation is considered necessary to maintain ecological balance, reduce environmental risk and preserve the long-term sustainability of the area.
Authorities have indicated that work schedules may be adjusted depending on weather and operational conditions.
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