Van der Stel Complex: R395 Million Redevelopment Sparks Debate in Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch Football Club (SFC) has signed a 30-year agreement with the Stellenbosch Municipality to completely revamp the Van der Stel Sport Complex. This significant R395 million project aims to transform the complex into a modern multi-sport facility. While some residents are optimistic about the potential for social upliftment and youth development, many local sports clubs and community members are concerned about losing their current playing fields, public access, and the potential strain on the town's infrastructure.

R395 Million Redevelopment: Plans for the Van der Stel Complex

Stellenbosch FC plans to invest R395 million into the Van der Stel Sport Complex over the next five years. The objective is to establish a multi-sport facility in Stellenbosch. Plans include a new 5,000-seat stadium, with potential expansion to 10,000 seats, alongside four international-standard grass football fields and six smaller multi-purpose fields or courts for various sports. This redevelopment is a substantial undertaking for the community.

Beyond Fields: Education and Parking Included in Van der Stel Complex Plans

The project extends beyond sports fields, incorporating a dedicated sports high school for 200 learners and a 150-bed residence for student-athletes. Additionally, a 300-metre grass athletics track is planned, along with a multi-storey parking facility capable of accommodating between 600 and 800 cars. Despite this investment, the Stellenbosch Municipality will retain ownership of the complex. Stuart Grobbelaar, the Municipality's communications manager, stated that this investment aims to create a facility that benefits everyone in the community.

Local Clubs and Residents Voice Concerns Over Van der Stel Complex Redevelopment

Despite assurances from the Municipality, this long-term lease has generated considerable discussion among community groups. The Van der Stel Sport Council, representing the 22 different sports currently utilising the complex, has expressed significant worry. They fear losing access and being displaced. Pieter Lotz, chairperson of the Van der Stel executive committee, noted a lack of clarity regarding future accommodation for other sports, leading to suspicions that limited space will remain for existing users.

The GOOD party has also strongly opposed the decision. They are concerned about the future of informal traders dependent on the complex and the added pressure on Stellenbosch's already challenged transport and parking infrastructure. Councillor Robin Hendrikse from the GOOD party highlighted that 1,340 people signed a petition against the plan during the public participation process. Hendrikse questioned the Municipality's decision to proceed, suggesting that if SFC possesses substantial funds, an alternative location could be found without displacing current users. Concerns also exist regarding potential high fees for other sports clubs to use the complex in the future.

Stellenbosch FC's Vision for Community Upliftment

Stellenbosch Football Club maintains that this project is a collaborative effort aimed at uplifting the entire community. Rob Benadie, SFC's CEO, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, affirming the Van der Stel Complex as the ideal home for the town's football club. SFC intends to leverage football for social upliftment, economic growth, and community engagement across the Cape Winelands. This partnership involves Stellenbosch FC, Stellenbosch Municipality, the ACE Trust, and the Open Play Foundation.

The ACE Trust will provide full bursaries for deserving students at the new sports high school, focusing on identifying talented young athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds for education and sports development. The Open Play Foundation, established by Stellenbosch FC and Remgro in January 2023, aims to create safe and accessible recreational spaces and community programmes in Stellenbosch's 'dorpies' or villages. Projects have already commenced in areas such as Cloetesville, Ida's Valley, and Kayamandi, including multi-purpose courts at Pieter Langeveldt Primary School. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to community contribution.

Municipality Defends Van der Stel Complex Redevelopment Decision

The Stellenbosch Municipality has defended its decision, explaining that the lease represents a long-term solution for maintaining and expanding the facility. Councillor Tamryn Kumm, from the Mayoral Committee for Youth, Sport and Culture, stated that the agreement ensures the complex receives much-needed investment. The Municipality also noted that Stellenbosch FC was the only bidder that met all requirements for managing the facility. They adopted a 'Hybrid Model for Sport Facility Management' in July 2020, which allows for structured partnerships while the Municipality retains control. The model aims to ensure facilities are accessible, well-maintained, and expanded, with community input shaping the plans.

While the Municipality discusses economic growth and opportunities for local athletes, the uncertainty for existing community sports remains a significant concern for many residents and sports clubs in Stellenbosch. The Van der Stel Sports Club's sporting council chairperson, Pieter Lotz, highlighted that the tender agreement stipulated the Municipality had six months to develop a relocation plan for various sports clubs. That plan has not yet been agreed upon, and the timeframe is expiring. The community's connection to these fields is strong, underscoring the local impact of such governance decisions.