Khayelitsha’s athletes are one step closer to having an upgraded stadium to call home, with the first phase of a R32 million investment at Mandela Park Stadium now complete, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The biggest milestone is the completion of the synthetic athletics track, alongside improvements to several field-event areas. Further work is already under way, with the City of Cape Town aiming to have the remaining upgrades ready before the upcoming athletics season.
For local schools, athletics clubs and young competitors, the project promises more than a fresh surface. It is part of a broader effort to improve the facilities available to the community and create better conditions for training and competition.
What has been completed at Mandela Park Stadium?
The first phase focused on renewing the stadium’s athletics facilities, including resurfacing the synthetic track and upgrading the areas used for long jump, triple jump, pole vault, shot put and hammer throw.
Repairs were also carried out on the stadium roof, columns and access ramps, addressing parts of the venue beyond the track itself.
The seating installation is now underway. Once complete, the new seats are expected to give the stadium a brighter, more colourful appearance, similar to the upgraded Blue Downs Athletics Track.
However, there is still work to be done before the full project is finished.
What happens next?
Phase 2 will focus on several practical improvements intended to make the stadium more functional and accessible. These include upgraded lighting, paving and ablution facilities.
The City is targeting completion in time for the next athletics season, although the remaining work will need to be finished before the venue can fully benefit from the planned improvements.
The athletics grading submission has already been lodged, while work is continuing towards compliance with the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act (SASREA).
These steps are important to the stadium’s readiness for athletics activities and events, alongside the physical improvements taking place on site.
Why the upgrade matters for Khayelitsha
The City says the investment is intended to strengthen access to quality sports facilities in Khayelitsha and surrounding communities.
Councillor Francine Higham, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, said the project was about investing in communities and giving young athletes better opportunities to develop their abilities.
She highlighted the importance of providing schools, local clubs and aspiring competitors with suitable places to train, compete and reach their potential.
The completed track and ongoing work are intended to help Mandela Park Stadium serve those needs for years to come.
Part of Cape Town’s wider sports investment
Mandela Park Stadium forms part of the City’s broader programme to improve community athletics facilities.
The upgraded Blue Downs and Wesfleur athletics facilities have already been completed and achieved World Athletics Class Two Certification. The Mandela Park project is also being brought up to the same level, according to the City.
Once the remaining work is finished, the Khayelitsha stadium will be better positioned to support local athletics and provide improved facilities for the next generation of competitors.
For now, the completed track marks a significant step forward, with the focus shifting to the seating, lighting, paving and ablution upgrades needed to bring the wider project over the finish line.
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
Cost-of-living relief: Western Cape calls for bigger utility allowances
Picture: City of Cape Town
