Cape Town - Despite high unemployment and a desperate need for decent housing opportunities, Athlone residents and traders have questioned why the City of Cape Town would propose a mixed use development at the parking lot south of the Athlone Stadium along Klipfontein Road, adding that this would cause further congestion and increased safety risks for residents and businesses.
According to residents, theft occurred daily in the area with residents, and particularly e-hailing drivers, targeted.
On Wednesday, the City announced the intention to put out a call for public comments on the proposed development, through its Economic Growth Directorate.
Mayco member for economic growth, James Vos, said a feasibility study was conducted in November 2023 to determine the best uses of the precinct to revitalise it and benefit the community.
Vos said details on when the public consultation process will commence will be made available to the public in the new year.
“The proposed mixed-use development, which aims to incorporate retail, commercial, and business components, is expected to stimulate economic activity, create employment opportunities, and enhance socio-economic development within the district. The stadium’s central location is ideal for business and employment opportunities as it is on main public transport routes,” said Vos.
The market value of the site was estimated at R17.6 million (exclusive of VAT and transfer costs).
Ruwayda Henkeman, 56, an informal trader of 20 years, situated just metres away from the site, shared her scepticism.
“The place is already cramped. I don't think it's a good idea. Why do they want to build there? There’s a lot of fields here, they can do it on the fields.”
On the east section of the stadium there was a vacant field, she added.
She added that there was also great need for housing in the area.
Resident for over 50 years, Adenaan Morris, said should there be housing opportunities made available, it will most likely be unaffordable for those living in the area.
“Because at the end of the day, there is going to be a rental of R7000/ R8000, whatever they are going to charge. And here by us, it's poverty.”
The area was previously used for driving lessons to be conducted.
However, the area was largely vacant unless there was a stadium event.
“And what is going to happen for our people from the community that stay here for all the years? Then you can’t see the opposite side of the stadium then there’s going to be robberies around here, house breaking, you can’t even watch people around here, the kids go with the balls there, we can't even watch them at the end of the day. It’s dangerous.”
Cape Argus