Residents in Bergvliet are raising concerns over a proposed high-capacity secondary school. The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) plans to build it on Erf 1061, a plot at the edge of the suburb.
Residents say the site is too small and environmentally sensitive for a large regional school. They warn it could increase traffic and strain local infrastructure.
WCED says planning is ongoing
The WCED confirmed that planning is still in progress. A spokesperson told People’s Post that the department is engaging with the City of Cape Town. No final decisions have been made.
The department added that residents will have a chance to engage as the project develops. All heritage, traffic, and environmental requirements will be followed.
Residents call it a ‘mega school’
The Bergvliet Voluntary Association (BVA) described the plan as a “mega school” in a “small, environmentally sensitive neighbourhood.”
Residents support education provision but fear a large facility could overwhelm streets, affect the environment, and pressure local services.
Community protests and meetings
On Wednesday 18 March, residents held a silent protest at the Alphen Centre on Constantia Main Road. That evening, a meeting at Bergvliet Sports Club allowed residents to share concerns and seek support.
The BVA said residents first learned about the project from a notice at the site. They have since contacted ward councillor Eddie Andrews and WCED representatives through letters and meetings.
Letters were also sent to Deputy Director-General Salie Abrahams, Western Cape Education Minister David Maynier, Premier Alan Winde, and Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
Residents suggest smaller alternatives
Residents proposed smaller-scale solutions. These include an early childhood and foundation phase centre for 150–200 learners or a smaller local high school.
They say these options would meet enrolment needs without causing major traffic or environmental problems.
WCED commits to consultation
The WCED said it will continue planning with the City of Cape Town. It will follow all heritage, traffic, and environmental requirements.
The BVA remains ready to engage constructively. However, it stresses that any large development must consider local infrastructure, traffic, environment, and community concerns.
