Princess Vlei is levelling up, and the new BMX track is just the beginning

If you’ve driven past Princess Vlei recently and thought, “Wait, what’s going on here?” it’s worth your curiosity. Transformation is underway, and it’s picking up serious momentum.

While the buzz around the new BMX track has grabbed attention, it’s one part of a much bigger upgrade turning Princess Vlei into a more accessible, community-driven outdoor space.

The headline act

The Princess Vlei BMX track has been steadily taking shape, with heavy machinery and construction crews pushing the project into high gear. 

What was once open ground is evolving into a purpose-built space for riders, especially young ones, who’ve long needed a safe, structured place to ride.

The track will give local talent somewhere to go. Something to build. And a reason to stay engaged. BMX, like many grassroots sports, thrives when the right infrastructure is in place. Without it, you get kids riding in the streets. With it, you get a community.

A bigger vision for Princess Vlei

The BMX track might be the most visible upgrade right now, but the broader vision for Princess Vlei is far more ambitious.

At the heart of it is a newly completed 4.23km circulatory trail, part of a R10.2 million investment in the area. Officially opened by Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, the trail is designed to make the vlei more usable for everyone.

“Princess Vlei is a remarkable natural asset that offers residents an opportunity to get active and reconnect with nature,” said Councillor Higham. 

“Benefits for the immediate community and visitors from across the city include a space for exercise and socialising, mental restoration and community connection,” she added.

The trail includes:

• Resting areas with seating
• Litter bins 
• Boardwalks and bridges that bring you closer to the water

Nature comes first 

Princess Vlei is ecologically important. The area is home to remnants of critically endangered Cape Flats Sand Fynbos and species such as the Marsh Heath and Strawberry Spiderhead. It’s also a breeding ground for the endangered Western Leopard Toad.

Development here isn’t a free-for-all. It’s a balancing act.

Rehabilitation of sensitive vegetation was built into the trail construction process in collaboration with the Princess Vlei Forum.

For more information, visit the Princess Vlei website.