Less than a month after Cape Town officially unveiled the new R10.2 million Princess Vlei trail, sections of the popular recreational route have already been damaged by vandals.
Image: City of Cape Town via City of CT X account
The City of Cape Town is appealing to the public for information after wooden slats were removed from one of the footbridges along the 4.23 km circular trail. The incident is believed to have taken place during the early hours of 30 June.
According to the City, recreation and parks rangers caught a group of suspects in the act but were unable to apprehend them after they fled the scene, leaving the stolen timber behind.
The trail, which opened in June, forms part of the City’s investment in accessible public open spaces. It features boardwalks, bridges, seating areas and litter bins, allowing visitors to explore the wetlands while enjoying improved access to the natural environment.
The City is appealing for information after the newly opened Princess Vlei trail was vandalised just three weeks after opening. Help protect community facilities by reporting information to 021 480 7700 or anonymously on 0800 110077.
See: https://t.co/Ox2XQeJvzb pic.twitter.com/7Tusi3tzMX
— City of Cape Town (@CityofCT) July 3, 2026
Damage extends beyond the bridges
In addition to the attempted theft, several signs along the trail have also been vandalised, with at least one information board defaced.
Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham, described the incident as disappointing.
“Our Recreation and Parks Department is doing what it can, within available resources, to maintain a security presence on site,” she said.
Higham noted that the trail stretches over several kilometres through open public space, making community vigilance an important part of protecting the facility.
The City has urged anyone with information about the incident to report it.
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Calls for stronger security
The vandalism has prompted calls from local residents for increased security measures at Princess Vlei.
Ratepayer Mike Lawry said the park should receive the same level of protection as other well-maintained public spaces in Cape Town, suggesting perimeter fencing, controlled opening hours, security patrols, CCTV cameras and improved lighting to help deter criminal activity.
Meanwhile, Ottery resident and retired police officer Keith Blake believes future infrastructure projects should make greater use of recycled materials that are less attractive to thieves.
Blake referenced a similar theft incident at Fisherman’s Lane in Strandfontein, where infrastructure was reportedly targeted despite a major upgrade completed just two years ago.
A significant ecological landmark
Beyond its recreational appeal, Princess Vlei is one of Cape Town’s most ecologically important urban wetlands.
The area is a breeding site for the endangered Western leopard toad and protects remnants of the critically endangered Cape Flats sand fynbos ecosystem. It is also home to several threatened plant species, including marsh heath and strawberry spiderhead.
The new trail was designed to improve public access while encouraging appreciation and conservation of this unique natural environment.
The City says it is continuing efforts to maintain and protect the site, but emphasises that community support will be essential in preventing further vandalism.
SOURCE: IOL
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