Athlone Stadium development faces backlash as McKenzie calls it a 'nonsense idea'

The City of Cape Town is finding itself at a crossroads as the contentious mixed-use development plan for the Athlone Stadium draws mixed reactions from residents.

This week, a pivotal meeting has been scheduled, allowing locals to voice their opinions and concerns regarding the proposed redevelopment.

Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has publicly rejected the City’s proposed development, calling it a “nonsense idea” and urging the City to redirect housing plans to affluent suburbs like Constantia.

Responding to the City’s announcement via Facebook, McKenzie wrote: “We will never allow this, never ever. We have many open spaces in the suburbs, perfect spots for mixed housing. Forget this nonsense idea. We plan to attract big matches to Athlone, but how will that be possible without ample parking space? Use the space used by horses in Constantia.”

The City recently opened a formal public participation process, running until July 7, to gather comments on the proposal to dispose of a portion of the stadium’s parking area along Klipfontein Road for a phased mixed-use development.

The plans, led by the Economic Growth Directorate, include commercial and retail components aimed at revitalising the precinct.

In response to criticism, mayco member for Economic Growth, James Vos, clarified that the core stadium infrastructure will remain untouched.

“Athlone Stadium is not being taken away. In fact, quite the opposite is true,” said Vos.

“The City’s Economic Growth Directorate is inviting the public to comment on a proposal to make better use of a small section of the parking area facing Klipfontein Road. Not the field. Not the stands. Not the sporting facilities. This is about unlocking commercial potential in the surrounding area, bringing in businesses, shops, and economic opportunities that can uplift the community and support the stadium’s long-term success.”

Vos said the development is aimed at replicating the precinct model used at the DHL Stadium in Green Point, where the surrounding commercial activity supports match-day vibrancy.

“One of the biggest reasons people don’t attend events at Athlone is because the area around the stadium lacks supporting activity; there’s no broader precinct experience,” he said.

“We want to build a space where people don’t just come for a match and leave, they stay longer, support local enterprises, connect with others, and enjoy a safe, welcoming environment.”

Aqeelah Abrahams, public relations officer for the Athlone Community Policing Forum (CPF) and  the Parktown Neighbourhood Watch said a community meeting would be hosted on Wednesday where residents may cite their concerns about the development. 

"There will be a community engagement this Wednesday, June 25, at the Bridgeville Primary School in Bridgetown.

"Currently the community is opposing the development, we are still in the process, engaging with the community."

Abrahams also shared the flyer advertising the engagement titled "Hands off Athlone Stadium."

Ward councillor, Rashid Adams, was not available for comment after numerous attempts on Sunday. 

Public reaction to McKenzie’s comments has been mixed, with some siding with the City, while others raised concerns over parking constraints during major events.

Mongezi Msuthu wrote: “I like your ideas Minister, but this time I am siding with the City. I understand your point, it is valid. Reading the article from the City, and I extract, ‘the development concept will be designed to retain and enhance parking and transport functionality, thereby supporting the stadium’s optimal operation and accessibility during events and peak usage periods'. If it is true that they will do that, then let them go for it. Business opportunities, job creation, plus the parking will be enhanced, not completely destroyed.”

Grant Moses added: “There's hardly enough parking as is once big teams play... I live by the stadium, so I can see people parking at the Joseph Stone and across the road from the Engen garage, right down to McDonald's.”

Others defended the broader goals of the development.

Lemarche Grobbelaar commented: “If it benefits the people and economic growth, why have an issue? The City is doing well when it comes to these two issues and putting SA on the map even before you. So focus on sports and the promises you made to the people, pools are still an issue, sports fields, arts, and recreation.”

The City confirmed that it is still in the formal comment phase and encouraged residents, community groups, and stakeholders to contribute to shaping the vision.

Comments can be submitted until July 7, 2025.

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