A major development proposal in Cape Town has stirred up public debate—and not everyone is thrilled about it.
The City of Cape Town recently rolled out a plan to partially repurpose the parking area at Athlone Stadium for a new mixed-use development, and the public now has until 7 July 2025 to voice their thoughts.
But one voice has already come in loud and clear—Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, who also leads the Patriotic Alliance party.
Gayton McKenzie Slams the Idea on Social Media
Taking to Facebook, McKenzie didn’t hold back. “We will never allow this, never ever,” he wrote, blasting the city’s plan.
He believes there are plenty of more suitable spots for housing in other areas, especially in open suburban land.
Calling the idea “nonsense,” he insisted that the Athlone site should remain focused on sports and community use.
Exactly who “we” refers to in his post wasn’t explained—but his message was clear.
Big Sporting Plans… But Vague Details
McKenzie hinted that he and his allies have plans to bring major sporting events to Athlone Stadium.
The only issue? He didn’t specify what kind of matches or what sport he meant.
Athlone Stadium is mostly used for soccer, but with Cape Town City FC currently battling to avoid relegation from the top-tier Betway Premiership, it’s uncertain whether elite-level football will even be played there next season.
Meanwhile, Cape Town Stadium still remains the go-to venue for top teams like the Stormers, Springboks, and potentially Cape Town City FC—if they stay up.
The Parking Debate: Convenience vs. Development
One of McKenzie’s biggest objections was about parking.
“We plan to attract big matches to Athlone—how will that be possible without ample parking space?” he asked.
And just when it seemed like the debate couldn’t get any more controversial, McKenzie suggested an alternative: “Use the space used by horses in Constantia.”
That vague reference is likely aimed at the S.A.R.D.A. facility, where horses help provide therapeutic riding sessions for individuals with disabilities.
Not surprisingly, the suggestion is likely to ruffle feathers among animal therapy advocates and horse lovers in the area.
What Exactly Is the City Proposing?
The City’s Economic Growth Directorate, led by Alderman James Vos, is spearheading the project.
The idea is to transform underused parking areas along Klipfontein Road into retail and commercial spaces, while still preserving enough parking for stadium events.
“The development will stimulate economic activity, create jobs, and support socio-economic growth in the district,” Vos said.
The initiative also fits within the city’s broader Cape Flats District Spatial Development Framework, which identifies the Athlone precinct as a key area for future development.
Community Voices Still Welcome
Despite the online backlash, the process is far from over.
Ward councillor Rashid Adams emphasized that nothing is set in stone and that public feedback is still being collected.
“We’re at the beginning of this. Everyone is welcome to share their thoughts, whether supportive or against.
My office is open to help with any information,” Adams said.
What’s the Bigger Picture?
Supporters argue that the move could revitalize the area, boost business, and bring more life to the stadium precinct.
Critics, however, worry it could mean losing community space, limiting stadium use, and creating new traffic and logistical issues.
As the 7 July deadline for public input draws near, this debate about balancing development with community needs is only heating up.