The City of Cape Town is considering the discounted sale of City-owned land in Retreat to establish a low-fee school in the area.

The properties — Remainder Erven 81626, 81627, 81639, Erf 81640, Remainder Erven 81641 and 81642, and Erf 82075 — are situated in Retreat and are bounded by Tenth Avenue, Ninth Avenue, Frans Marony Street and Victoria Road.

The properties collectively cover an area of approximately 14 910 m², zoned as open space, and are currently being used as a rubble dumping area, according to Mayco member for economic growth, James Vos.

Affordable education

“The objective is to improve access to affordable education and deliver long-term social and economic benefits to the community, rather than maximise financial return (from the sale),” he said.

The site was identified by the applicant as an application submitted to the City’s Property Transactions Department.

The applicant is a registered non-profit organisation (NPO), the City confirmed.

The relevant subcouncil was notified of the proposed disposal in 2024, and the proposal was advertised for public comment last year.

“This proposal was evaluated on its clear and measurable public benefit. It will deliver a low-fee school in an area where the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has confirmed a need for additional schooling capacity and expanding access to quality education for more learners. By offering school fees that are lower than those charged by many independent schools, the development will make quality education significantly more affordable and accessible to families who may otherwise be excluded,” Vos explained.

Opportunity for proposals

However, the process has not been concluded.

The City is currently preparing to advertise a call for proposals, giving other interested parties an opportunity to put forward alternatives.

Any proposals received will be assessed in accordance with the City’s applicable policies, processes and legal requirements.

“The proposed disposal therefore remains subject to the completion of the required municipal and statutory processes, including the consideration of submissions received through the relevant public participation processes,” Vos added.

The proposal for the low-fee school will “help meet a confirmed need for additional school capacity while expanding access to affordable, quality education in Retreat,” Vos said.

“By establishing a low-fee school with fees below those of many independent schools, this project will open the door to educational opportunities for families who may otherwise not be able to afford them,” he said.

The City says it will continue to follow a transparent and fair process before any final decision is taken.

People’s Post reached out to the WCED and local residents for their thoughts regarding the new school.

ALSO READ: Gilray Scout Campsite heritage nomination remains under assessment