Urgent Investigation Requested Into GoNow Electric Scooters in Stellenbosch CBD

GOOD Statement by Marius van Stade, GOOD Stellenbosch Municipality Councillor:

GOOD Stellenbosch has formally submitted a request to Geraldine Mettler, Municipal Manager of Stellenbosch Municipality, calling for an urgent intervention and comprehensive investigation into the operation of the GoNOW electric scooter services within the Stellenbosch Central Business District (CBD).

This intervention follows numerous complaints received from motorists, pedestrians, business owners, residents, and members of the public regarding reckless and unsafe conduct associated with the operation of these electric scooters within public spaces and roads across Stellenbosch.

Over recent months, serious concerns have escalated regarding the way the scooters are being operated on public roads, sidewalks, and pedestrian areas. Complaints include reckless driving, excessive speed in pedestrian zones, obstruction of public walkways, near-collisions involving vehicles and pedestrians, and allegations that scooters are being operated by minors without adequate supervision or enforcement of safety measures. We would like a full investigation on these serious allegations.

GOOD Councillor Marius van Stade believes that these actions endanger the safety and wellbeing of law-abiding citizens and raise serious questions regarding legal compliance, liability, and public safety management within Stellenbosch.

While GOOD Stellenbosch acknowledges the value of innovation, environmentally friendly transport solutions, and alternative mobility options for students and residents, such initiatives cannot be permitted to operate in a manner that compromises public safety or exists outside clear legal and regulatory compliance.

GOOD Stellenbosch has therefore requested that Stellenbosch Municipality urgently:

• Conduct a full legal and regulatory investigation into the operation of the GoNOW electric scooter services within Stellenbosch;
• Determine whether the operators are fully compliant with municipal by-laws, road traffic legislation, public liability requirements, and land use permissions;
• Assess the impact of electric scooters on pedestrian safety, traffic management, and public infrastructure;
• Investigate whether sufficient safety controls, enforcement measures, age verification systems, and operational oversight mechanisms are in place; and
• Provide Council and the public with clarity regarding the Municipality’s legal position on the operation of electric scooters within public spaces and roads.
• Whether electric scooters are legally permitted to operate on public roads; and
• The reported intention by the Municipality to consider shutting down operations due to legal and regulatory uncertainty.

GOOD Stellenbosch believes that public safety, accountability, and lawful governance must remain paramount. Any transportation initiative operating within Stellenbosch must do so within a transparent, enforceable, and properly regulated framework that protects all road users, pedestrians, residents, and visitors alike.

“We cannot ignore the growing number of complaints and safety concerns raised by the public. Innovation must operate within the law and cannot come at the expense of public safety,” said Cllr. Marius van Stade, GOOD Stellenbosch Party Whip.

GOOD Stellenbosch trusts that this matter will receive the urgent attention it deserves and looks forward to formal feedback from the Municipality regarding its intended course of action.

GOOD Digital Transformation: GOOD supports the use of technology to improve government services.

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