Residents living near the Athlone Power Station have advocated for the site to be used for housing and job creation.
The coal-fired Athlone Power Station stopped generating power in 2003, and its cooling towers were demolished in 2010. Currently, the City of Cape Town is finalising plans to officially decommission the site.
According to the Cape Argus, the City’s mayoral committee member for energy and climate change, Beverley van Reenen, said that the site has the potential to enhance the city’s energy landscape.
However, Langa ward councillor Lwazi Phakade voiced residents’ concerns, noting their request for housing solutions and a job-creating facility, like a shopping centre.
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Madoda Dopla Cuphe, a Langa resident and long-time activist, insisted that any development should prioritise residents’ needs and interests.
Similarly, Pastor Chivaughn Brown from the Sunnyside Civic Association and Neighbourhood Watch has suggested that it could become an informal trade station similar to a grand bazaar, as well as a training and cultural centre.
‘This would entail a multi-purpose initiative with its core purpose to bring people together, the uplifting of the community and bringing the community within future sustainability, resource building and new technology via universities in a hub,’ he said.
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The chairperson of the Forum of Cape Flats Civics has called for public participation by the City. He proposes a research and development centre at the site, incorporating sustainability technology like battery power and solar panels, especially in a community-owned grand bazaar setup.
According to Councillor van Reenen, the City’s Energy Directorate is considering the site’s potential.
‘The City’s Energy Directorate sees huge potential for this site, which will assist in the transformation of the city’s energy footprint and support economic growth and the provision of basic services,’ she said.
She added that the repowering and repurposing of the site hinge on the completion of its decommissioning, which is expected soon.
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Picture: Screenshot / Google Maps