Maitland residents are opposing plans to host an event at the Royal Road Sports Complex later this year, saying they were not properly consulted.

They claim the 8 000 capacity music event could bring noise, traffic chaos and safety concerns to their neighbourhood.

Once the permit process is finalised, The Soulful Reunion, organised by radio and social media personality, Peadon Smith, is scheduled to take place on Saturday 19 December.

Concerns over noise and safety

The Maitland Ratepayers and Residents Association (MRRA) has formally objected to the event in a letter to the City, seen by People’s Post, arguing that a festival of this scale is “unsuitable” for a venue surrounded by homes, businesses and places of worship.

Graham Daniels, MRRA safety and security spokesperson, said: “Concerns raised include excessive noise pollution, traffic congestion, illegal parking, obstruction of access routes, alcohol-related incidents, public safety and security risks, littering, vandalism and general public nuisance before, during and after the event.”

He said residents are particularly concerned about the impact on elderly people, children, shift workers and “vulnerable members of the community”.

Daniels added that the facility is situated close to residential areas and that an event of this scale may place “additional strain on law enforcement, traffic services, emergency services and municipal resources”.

“While the City was still requesting public input and community buy-in, videos promoting and advertising the event, including the event date, had already been posted by the organiser…this creates the impression that the hosting of the event had already been predetermined before meaningful engagement with the Maitland community had taken place.”

The MRRA believes more suitable venues, such as the 14th Avenue sports field or the Green Point Stadium precinct, are better equipped to host an event of this scale.

The association has urged authorities to carefully consider residents’ objections before granting any permits, liquor licences or noise exemptions for the festival.

When asked about the residents’ concerns, Smith said he “will not be providing any comment on the matters raised”.

He further added that all the required documentation relating to the event has been “successfully submitted to the City of Cape Town and the relevant ward councillor as part of the necessary approval processes”.

City reviews application

The City said its events permit office (EPO) is currently reviewing the application and the plans for the festival.

“The City’s Events By-law requires that event organisers communicate with affected parties on event plans, provide mitigating measures for any impact and address any concerns raised.”

The City said the organiser has begun consulting residents and secured some support signatures, with engagement continuing.

The Events Permit Office is also meeting regularly with the organiser and has recommended additional safety and traffic management measures for the event.

Cheslyn Steenberg, Ward 56 councillor, said a meeting with the organiser, members of the MRRA and stakeholders is taking place tomorrow (30 June).

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