Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis officially opened the major R30 million upgrade to Blue Downs Athletics Stadium, together with Francine Higham, Mayco member for community services and health.
Wide-ranging upgrades have been completed, including a full replacement of the tartan running track, and refurbishments to the steeple chase arena, triple and long-jump sections, hammer throw cage, and javelin area.
R30 million
“We can’t wait for the athletes of the broader Blue Downs area to hit this tartan track running after this major R30 million upgrade, just in time for athletics season. For the lower-income areas of Blue Downs and surrounds, this upgrade means priceless opportunities for schools, communities, and most importantly, our talented young athletes to reach their full potential, backed by quality athletics facilities. This is one of several stadiums the City is progressively upgrading to serve as quality recreational hubs in each region of our city. We look forward to more progress ahead on these major sporting upgrades,” said Hill-Lewis.
Further enhancements to the stadium precinct at Blue Downs include grandstand improvements, a re-grassed oval, and tree planting. The various upgrades now enable the City to seek Sasrea grading for large sports event hosting at this facility.
Critical role
“Facilities like Blue Downs Stadium play a critical role in keeping young people active, safe and off the streets. When communities have access to quality sports infrastructure, young people gain structure, mentorship and a positive place to belong. I want to thank the City officials and teams who worked to deliver and maintain this facility. This stadium belongs to the community and I call on residents to use it, respect it and protect it for generations to come,” said Higham.
The Blue Downs stadium is one of various City facilities offering essential support to the partners, including Western Province Athletics, the Western Cape Education Department, and active communities.
The facility is also earmarked as a Regional Recreation Hub with further upgrades on the cards in the coming years.
