Micro-Mobility Hubs
A new approach to a major urban challenge
Local South is advancing a new model for managing the rapid growth of last-mile delivery in cities.
In Cape Town, we led the first micro-mobility hub pilot in partnership with the Centre for Transport Studies at the University of Cape Town and the Langa Bicycle Hub, with endorsement from the City of Cape Town and funding from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
Responding to an urgent need
The pilot responds to a growing urban challenge: the surge in delivery demand globally is placing increasing pressure on public space, with drivers operating without access to basic infrastructure, contributing to congestion, inefficiencies, and tensions in high-demand areas.
Improving congestion, public space, and operations
Local South developed the concept, designed and sourced the infrastructure, convened key partners, and delivered the hubs end-to-end at three sites in Cape Town.
The pilot demonstrates how simple, well-managed infrastructure can support delivery drivers while improving the functioning of the city. Beyond enhancing working conditions, the hubs have delivered clear operational benefits:
– Reduced congestion at key pickup points.
– Improved flow and organisation in high-demand areas.
– More efficient and reliable last-mile delivery operations.
Just the beginning
The aim is to build on the partnerships, insights, and operational learnings generated to date, and to explore how this approach can evolve. As cities continue to grapple with the rapid growth of last-mile delivery, there is a clear opportunity to refine, adapt, and embed this model as part of a longer-term response to managing public space and supporting more efficient, inclusive urban logistics.
