City wraps up R 77 million refurbishment of key athletics stadiums
Work on the Blue Downs Athletics Track is still in progress.
Image: CoCT
Upgrades to the Wesfleur Athletics Track in Atlantis and the Blue Downs Athletics Track is still in progress and expected to be completed before the upcoming athletics season, the City announced.
This, as it completed a major refurbishment at Vygieskraal Athletics Stadium in Athlone, including the installation of brand-new floodlighting, roofing repairs valued at nearly R1 million, and the restoration of the shot put and long jump areas.
Plumbing and electrical systems have also been improved, while new spectator seating will enhance the visitor experience.
Further upgrades at Vygieskraal include ongoing work on the effluent line as part of scheduled maintenance.
The works are part of a wider investment intended to improve the stadium's functionality.
Vygieskraal's adjacent rugby facility has also seen upgrades, with parking and fencing projects completed during the current financial year. Additional lighting will be installed in the new financial year.
"These milestones demonstrate the City’s commitment to quality public sporting infrastructure. By investing in these upgrades, we’re ensuring that athletes of all ages and abilities have safe, welcoming, and well-equipped spaces to train and compete. It will ensure our sports 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," said Community Services and Health mayco member, Francine Higham.
The total investment in the reinstatement of athletics tracks at Wesfleur and Blue Downs is approximately R60 million.
The athletics refurbishments are part of a strategic citywide 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.
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