Residents now have more time to comment on a controversial City development plan for the Mowbray and Pinelands suburbs. The public comment deadline has moved from 6 July to 7 August.

Bigger development, bigger concerns

The City wants to build 6 700 residential units in the area. The land earmarked for development includes the 116-year-old King David Mowbray Golf Club (KDM). Industrial and commercial spaces form part of the plan too.

Critics called the original 6 July deadline too short. The scale of the proposal demands proper engagement, they said.

KDM has welcomed the extension.

Disabled golfers sound the alarm

The South African Disabled Golf Association (SADGA) has written to Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews. The association urges the City to drop the plan.

“This will impact not just Pinelands, but many other people. Just think of the gridlock on the N2, next to which this development will be built,” KDM chair Mike Flax said.

“The extension to 7 August recognises that reality. We thank the City for making the process fairer,” he said.

KDM draws at least 25 000 visiting golfers each year. It serves as a cornerstone of community life, heritage and inclusive sport in Cape Town.

SADGA calls KDM the home of disabled golf in South Africa. No other Cape Town club can absorb its members, the association said.

“Over decades, KDM has built accessibility, experienced staff, adaptive facilities and a culture of inclusion. Our members include adults and children with physical, hearing and intellectual disabilities. Beneficiaries include no fewer than seven schools,” SADGA board chair Enver Hassen said.

“Relocating SADGA will undermine decades of progress in disabled golf in South Africa,” he said.

Football club under threat

The plan threatens the 128-year-old Clyde Pinelands Football Club. It stands as the oldest non-amalgamated football club in South Africa. Its fields support youth development and grassroots sport.

Housing promise questioned

KDM does not oppose affordable housing. But the club questions whether this is the right site.

“This development will only deliver 30% housing not social housing. The majority of the site opens to market-priced private development. This risks the permanent loss of high-functioning public assets,” Flax said.

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