Gayton McKenzie has no time for horses in Constantia
The City of Cape Town earlier this month launched a public participation process for its proposal to dispose of a portion of the Athlone Stadium parking area to make way for a mixed-use development.
However, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie, who is also the Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader, isn't happy.
The public has until 7 July 2025 to submit comments on the proposal. Facebook post
Gayton McKenzie took to his Facebook page of Saturday to post: 'We will never allow this, never ever.
'We have many open spaces in suburbs, perfect spot for mixed housing. Forget this nonsense idea.'
It's unclear who McKenzie meant by 'we'.
He went on to add that 'we' 'have plans to attract big matches' to Athlone – without mentioning what sport he was referring to.
Athlone Stadium is predominantly used as a soccer venue. There is a very real chance that the Western Cape won't have a top-flight soccer team next season with Cape Town City FC currently battling to maintain their Betway Premiership status and avoid relegation.
The Cape Town Stadium remains the preferred choice of venue for Cape Town City FC (should they avoid relegation), as well as the Stormers and Springboks.
Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana seldom visit the Mother City.
'We plan to attract big matches to Athlone, how will that be possible without ample parking space,' McKenzie questioned.
He then ended with a suggestion which won't go down well with horse lovers in particular in the southern suburbs.
'Use the space used by horses in Constantia,' he wrote.
It's again unclear which 'space' Gayton McKenzie was referring to, although the assumption is it is the area off Brommersvlei Road in Constantia currently occupied by S.A.R.D.A. who offer free equine therapy through horse riding to children and adults living with intellectual and physical disabilities to improve their physical and social wellbeing and learning abilities.
Spearheaded by the City's Economic Growth Directorate, the proposal would see under-utilised parking areas along Klipfontein Road converted into a combination of retail and commercial spaces, while retaining enough capacity for stadium event parking.
'The proposed mixed-use development… is expected to stimulate economic activity, create employment opportunities, and enhance socio-economic development within the district,' said Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.
The project falls in line with the Cape Flats District Spatial Development Framework, which identifies the stadium precinct as a 'Development Focus Area'.
A feasibility study has highlighted areas suitable for phased infill development.
Vos emphasised that revenue generated from the proposed disposal – likely through a public auction – would be reinvested into further upgrades to Athlone Stadium, a venue known for hosting community, sporting, and cultural events.
'The stadium's central location is ideal for business and employment opportunities as it is located on main public transport routes,' added Vos.
Athlone ward councillor Rashid Adams confirmed that the parking lot remains in use while public input is being gathered.
'We just started with the process. We encourage everyone to come and log in their opinions or objections. They can come to my office for any information,' he said.
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