Cape Town’s R115 Million N2 Wall Project Sparks Debate
Cape Town is moving forward with a controversial R115 million project to upgrade security along a 9km stretch of the N2 highway, known as the “hell run,” but the plan has ignited debate over its effectiveness and whether the funds could be better allocated to address underlying socio-economic issues.
Project Details and Budget Allocation
The City of Cape Town’s adjusted 2025/26 budget allocates approximately R7 million for the design phase and R108 million for the construction of the N2 Edge project. This upgrade represents about 1.3% of the city’s total R8.2 billion capital expenditure for urban mobility over the next three years, with the majority of that budget dedicated to expanding the MyCiti bus service.
In comparison, the city has allocated R3.5 billion to housing over the same period, primarily for Breaking New Ground (BNG) housing, and R1 billion to safety and security initiatives.
Addressing Safety Concerns on the N2
The N2 highway has long been a hotspot for criminal activity, including smash-and-grab incidents, hijackings, and gun crimes. The proposed project aims to address these concerns by rebuilding a vandalized 9km boundary fence, improving lighting, and installing safety barriers around play areas. City officials state the existing barrier is “completely dilapidated, and there is nearly nothing left of it.”
According to Mayco member for urban mobility Rob Quintas, the project is still in its early stages, and public participation has yet to take place.
Community Reactions and Concerns
The N2 Edge project has drawn mixed reactions from residents living near the highway. Some, like Asive Kanamtu from the Joe Slovo informal settlement, believe the wall will deter criminals and improve safety for both motorists and residents. Others express skepticism, arguing that the funds would be better spent addressing the root causes of crime and improving living conditions in informal settlements.
Residents of Khayalam informal settlement in Khayelitsha were largely unaware of the project but expressed hope that it would enhance safety for everyone. However, some residents, like Babalo Dunywe, argue that the money could be better used to address pressing needs such as housing and unemployment. Concerns have also been raised that the wall could further entrench spatial inequalities and hide impoverished communities from view.
A Khayelitsha community leader, speaking anonymously, criticized the city for allocating funds to the wall while claiming a lack of land for housing relocation projects.
City’s Perspective
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has defended the project, stating that it will improve safety for commuters from various communities, including Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain, and others. He emphasized that the N2 Edge project will complement increased highway patrols and the deployment of 40 new metro police officers, along with CCTV cameras and automatic number plate recognition technology.
JP Smith, mayco member for safety and security, noted a lack of intervention from other government entities and highlighted the challenges of policing the area without a proper boundary wall, citing instances where criminals have escaped into nearby informal settlements.