The City of Cape Town's public participation process for the proposed development of the King David Mowbray Golf Club (KDM) site has once again stirred debate about appropriate land use. It is a very important debate. The need to address spatial inequality, not just in Cape Town, but in all South Africa cities, should be acknowledged by everyone. Large parts of Cape Town remain defined by patterns of economic exclusion.
Sometimes, however, arguments about responsible land use tend towards easy assumptions. This should be avoided. There are four key questions that I believe must be honestly answered by all parties during the important debate on KDM's future.
I ask these four questions below as a concerned Capetonian who passionately believes the city should make tough decisions about mixed-use development and spatial inclusion. I also ask these questions as a golfer and a member of KDM's board - something many will think disqualifies me from an objective view on the matter, but I believe my position gives me a unique perspective on a complex situation.
Question one:
Is the KDM site one of the best pieces of land though which the city can assist in creating mixed-use spaces?
There needs to be clarity and honesty about this. Large open spaces in District Six - much closer to the CBD - as well as the Athlone power site, and empty stretches along the M5 next to Valkenberg represent just a few examples that should be considered when answering the question. Many argue it does not make sense to push for the demolition of a functional, historic and beloved urban asset, like KDM, rather than to seek ways of developing empty land, or ways of using vacant provincial and municipal sites across the metro.
Question two:
Can KDM's contribution to the local economy be dismissed?
Whatever your opinion on the development, it is a fact that golf contributes considerably to the local economy. Recently, even Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth James Vos admitted in the Cape Times that "golf is worth its weight in gold for Cape Town’s economy". A week ago even eThewkini invested millions in golf sponsorships in its metro, acknowledging this truth.
Globally, golf tourism is projected to grow from a $24.6 billion industry to a $41 industry in the next five years. The Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (Satsa) recently launched a Golf Tourism Chapter within its structures. Last year a golf tourism survey was published by Wesgro, highlighting Cape Town's popularity. Simply put, Cape Town as a golfing destination creates jobs, thanks to the proven "multiplier effect" of tourism.
There is a massive demand for golf in the city. Reducing the supply by demolishing a famous course would have an economic effect. It should be noted that the last 18-hole course to be opened in the city was Atlantic Beach in 2000, a quarter of a century ago.
Question three:
How important are green spaces in creating a healthy, balanced and beautiful city for all?
The warning from some that "opposition to affordable and social housing under the guise of environmental concerns often seeks to preserve the status quo" should be taken seriously. But sober thought should also be given to the consequences of removing a significant green lung and flood barrier like the KDM.
Question four:
Are golf clubs race or class enclaves, exclusionary spaces guarded for the elite?
The history and membership of KDM proves it to be a diverse space. This is thanks to its past, spanning 115 years, and its geographical position. KDM has its roots in the King David, Mowbray and Peninsula clubs, and is a unique golf and community melting pot, servicing different parts of the city. It is also a point of pride for members that the club has worked hard, over decades, to make golf inclusive.
Youth development is a KDM priority. The club has brought young players of varied backgrounds to the greens through a programme that focusses on schools and neighbourhoods that do not have access to golf and golfing equipment.
KDM also serves as the provincial home for the South African Disabled Golf Association, and hosts an important programme for disabled youth, including those with severe mobility impairments. The programme serves numerous schools, the majority of which are in impoverished neighbourhoods, offering them access to adapted golf environments, career guidance, and essential daily meals for those who require it.
The sense of community that golf gives players of all abilities and ages is remarkable to witness. The therapeutic value of golf is also significant.
Without KDM the disabled youth programme will most likely cease. Relocation would be too expensive. If a home could be found elsewhere, the replication of facilities would cost millions of rands.
These are the types of consequences that complicate the debate. Care must be taken to understand the value of the site. And only then can a decision can be made.
The complexity of the situation must be acknowledged, along with this truth: Saying KDM should survive is not the same as saying spatial inequality should survive. We need to address spatial inequality urgently. But I would argue how we address it is just as important.
Ensuring real public participation in the process ahead is not only the responsibility of KDM and its 1 500 members, but, in effect, it is the responsibility of all Capetonians. Wider issues are raised. Responsibly re-shaping our city in ways that sustainably correct the geographic oppression and exclusion of the past is essential.
*Biko is a board member of the King David Mowbray Golf Club