Further studies are to determine the feasibility of upgrading the Velodrome Stadium for future use, although minor upgrades done so far might prove useful for some recreation.
Providing more clarity about the Velodrome’s future were Mayco members for community services and health as well as economic growth, Patricia van der Ross and James Vos.
Of the R8,3 million allocated budget to bring the Velodrome up to standard, R3,3 million was ultimately invested by the City for minor repairs (“Bleak future for Velodrome”, TygerBurger, 13 November).
All things considered, many still wonder whether the stadium could be put to good public use.
In its current state the Velodrome is not safety-compliant in terms of the Sports and Recreational Events Act (Sasrea), said Van der Ross.
“This means it cannot host events attended by more than 2 000 people. To obtain compliance to host larger crowds would require additional infrastructure upgrades and repairs.”
She suggested that hope remained as this once world-class stadium was still able to serve some utility.
“The City is currently considering its options to arrive at an outcome that is not only fiscally responsible, but also does not place an additional strain on ratepayers but does respond to the needs of users, specifically cycling and athletics.”
Once the potential options are identified, Van der Ross added, a public-participation process will follow.
Legal advice
Vos provided further clarity on legal factors, based on Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis’ response to council.
He had previously stated “there are currently no further planned capital works at the Velodrome, due to further feasibility and technical studies that are required to inform the future of the facility, as well as legal advice regarding disposal processes of the City.”
Vos explained that “legal advice is being sought regarding the technical detail to determine the most prudent approach for proceeding with a potential future transaction.
