The City of Cape Town’s recent decision to extend the public comment deadline regarding the controversial draft development concept for the King David Mowbray Golf Club (KDM) and surrounding areas in Pinelands has ignited a wave of responses from local residents and organisations.
The new deadline of 7 August, pushing back from the previous 6 July, allows for broader community involvement in evaluating a development plan that has significant implications for the historic area.
Chairperson of KDM, Mike Flax has welcomed the extension, stating, ‘The scale makes it clear this is not a routine planning exercise. It is a matter of significant public interest requiring careful deliberation. The extension to 7 August recognises that reality. We thank the City for making the process fairer,’
His comments reflect a growing concern that the high-density proposal comprising 6,700 residential units along with commercial and industrial spaces could fundamentally alter the character of Pinelands and strain existing infrastructure.
Flax commented on the direct impact the development could have, especially on daily commuters using the N2 highway. ‘This will impact not just Pinelands, but many other people,’ he said, emphasising the need for a thorough evaluation of the project’s far-reaching consequences.
Opposition to the proposed development is mounting, particularly from the South African Disabled Golf Association (SADGA). The association has formally objected to the City’s plans, stating that redeveloping the course would threaten the future of disabled golf in South Africa.
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Chairperson of the SADGA Board, Enver Hassen has highlighted the importance of KDM as an inclusive space for individuals with disabilities. ‘Over decades, KDM has developed accessibility and adaptive facilities crucial for our members,’ he explained, noting that the club serves as a hub for at least seven schools.
Relocating SADGA would undermine decades of progress in promoting inclusion within the sport, he warned.
The looming development also threatens the Clyde Pinelands Football Club, a significant community institution for 128 years and the oldest non-amalgamated football club in the country. Its fields have long been pivotal for youth development and grassroots sports initiatives.
Despite acknowledging the necessity for affordable housing, KDM officials argue that the proposed development fails to provide adequate social benefits, with only 30% of the housing designated as ‘affordable’ and not even as social housing.
‘This risks achieving the worst of all worlds: insufficient social return and the permanent loss of high-functioning public assets,’ cautioned Flax.
He urged the City to consider alternative sites for development that could better serve the community without sacrificing key public spaces.
As the deadline approaches, all Capetonians are encouraged to engage with the proposal and express their views. The foundational documents related to the development plan will soon be made available, and interested parties can register and submit comments at www.infinityenv.co.za/mowbray.
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