Cape Town: The Recreation and Parks Department of the City of Cape Town is making significant progress on refurbishment works at key athletics facilities – Wesfleur Stadium in Atlantis, Blue Downs Stadium and Vygieskraal Stadium in Athlone, that marks exciting milestones in the multi-million-rand refurbishment programme aimed at revitalizing community sports infrastructure.
The City of Cape Town has completed a major refurbishment at Vygieskraal Athletics Stadium in Athlone, including the installation of brand-new flood-lighting, along with roofing repairs valued at nearly R1 million, and the restoration of the shot put and long jump areas.
As per reports, plumbing and electrical systems have also been improved, while new spectator seating will enhance the visitor experience. Further upgrades in the stadiums include ongoing work on the effluent line as part of scheduled maintenance.
Notably, these works are part of a wider investment that intends to improve the functionality of the stadium. The adjacent rugby facility has also seen upgrades, with parking and fencing projects which will be completed during the current financial year. Additional lighting will also be installed in the new financial year.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councilor Francine Higham said that these milestones demonstrate the commitment of the City of Cape Town to quality public sporting infrastructure.
According to Higham, by investing in these upgrades, they ensure that athletes of all ages and abilities have safe, welcoming, and well-equipped spaces to train and compete. She said, “It will ensure our sport facilities offer safe, quality spaces for communities.”
“By continuing to invest in these refurbishments, we are creating lasting value and supporting a healthier lifestyle for residents,” stated Councillor Francine Higham.
Furthermore, work on the Wesfleur Athletics Track in Atlantis and the Blue Downs Athletics Track is still in progress and is expected to be completed before the upcoming athletics season. The total investment in the reinstatement of athletics tracks at both of these facilities is approximately R60 million.
The athletics refurbishments are part of a strategic city-wide programme guided by a 2021 Athletics Study, with the goal of achieving SASREA compliance and expanding access to facilities across Cape Town. The objective is to secure SASREA grading and ensure safer, more accessible facilities across Cape Town.