With the inaugural Cape Town e-Prix circuit being voted Formula E’s ‘Race of the Year’ we examine what it took for PJA to create the track on the streets of South Africa’s ‘Mother City’.
With Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean in view, the biggest economic and global media event1 in Cape Town for a decade was ready to start, but alongside the excitement Formula E’s message was clear – it is still the first sport to be net zero since inception and continues to implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals within their environmental strategy2, sharing their technology to pioneer the way for the road cars of tomorrow.
But how did Cape Town become an award-winning Formula E racing circuit? PJA Director, Jerry Muscroft, tells all:
“It all started with a kick-off meeting a little over four years ago and ended with seeing the racing in person on 25th February 2023. From concept to delivery, PJA supported e-Movement to create a world-class Formula E racing circuit, the first ever held in Sub-Saharan Africa, that showcased the stunning scenery around this historic city and delivered exciting and thrilling racing action.
“Working with e-Movement, we agreed to design a circuit that showcased the wonders of Cape Town, a fast circuit to challenge the drivers and create an event that lived up to the spectacular back drop of Table Mountain. But, more importantly, we aimed to provide a platform to address the need to use sustainable forms of green energy and mobility in Africa.
“PJA were involved in the project from the initial concept, through the feasibility study and design development stages, preparation of FIA Homologation and engineering drawings to delivery on site.
“Detailed consideration was given on how best to allow the city and local environs to continue to operate during the construction of the circuit and we also assisted with the preparation and submission of the circuit dossier to FIA, including meeting with them to present circuit proposals ensuring any issues or concerns were addressed swiftly and smoothly.
“Consideration was given to creating a fast free-flowing circuit that fitted within the fabric of the city but also considered the needs of residents and spectators by offering sustainable accessibility to the venue. In our continuing role we liaised with Formula E, FIA and Motorsport South Africa and other key stakeholders to deliver the project and considered a potential legacy project: introducing a cycle track around the circuit for everyday use post-race day.
“Creating a street circuit in a major capital city in such a short timeframe is a massive challenge. This could only be achieved through great collaboration, teamwork and passion, a project where so many people put their heart and soul into making it happen, and were so eager to showcase the place they live.
“The inaugural 2.9km long Cape Town street circuit provided some spectacular racing and mind-blowing overtaking moves that have left the racing world calling for more. It shows just what can be achieved with a little imagination, a lot of positivity and a ton of passion combined with an amazing amount of skill and knowledge.
“There are many people to thank and you know who you are, but this could not have been achieved without the support of Nadeson, who supported in undertaking the civils design of the local streets, Martin & East for building those works, The City of Cape Town for believing in the impossible, Access Management and of course Formula E.”
The Cape Town EPrix circuit has been voted as Formula E’s ‘Race of the Year’ and is home to season nine’s ‘Best Overtake’ from eventual Cape Town circuit winner Antonio Felix da Costa; One of two Cape Town overtakes in season nine’s top ten. A delighted Iain Banner from e-Movement praised Jerry saying “All credit to you for designing a racers track!”
Jerry Muscroft
Jerry has over 30 years’ experience in the planning, design and delivery of development infrastructure for both large and small scale projects both in UK and internationally. His focus is on private sector projects in the residential, retail, commercial, leisure and education sectors.
Get in touch with Jerry: [email protected]
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