The City of Tshwane is set to attract private investors to transform two iconic stadiums, Odi in Mabopane and HM Pitje in Mamelodi, into multipurpose facilities.
This follows a year-long public participation process that sought to gather public views on the proposed project.
The redevelopment plan aims to create multi-use sporting precincts, incorporating retail and office parks, making the stadiums financially viable.
A proposed 80-year lease, comprising an initial 50-year lease and a 30-year renewal option, is on the table.
Mayor Nasiphi Moya assured communities that they will have access to the facilities once the redevelopment is complete.
She said that partnering with private companies does not mean the City is privatising the facilities.
Private partners are expected to start work within three years after a process to bring them on board.
DA councillor Daniel Wannenburg welcomed the redevelopment proposal, citing its potential to revive economic activities in Mamelodi and Mabopane.
“In our pursuit of revitalising these properties we must prioritise attractive investment in the city. This is not just about buildings, it is about creating spaces to serve our economic hubs, fostering job creation, entrepreneurship and community pride,” he said.
Wannenburg, however, expressed concerns that the proposed market rental of R100 000 per month might deter potential investors.
FF-Plus councillor Peter Meijer noted that the City lacks the financial capacity to unlock the stadiums' full potential, suggesting that private sector involvement is necessary.
He cited the example of the HM Pitje stadium, which was rebuilt in 2011 at a cost of R140 million but was never used due to poor workmanship and vandalism.
The Mamelodi-based HM Pitje was demolished in February 2023 by the Gauteng provincial government at an estimated cost of R87 million, but the asset remains in the ownership and custodianship of the City.
The stadium, according to a council report, had several shortcomings and consequently did not comply with occupational health and safety.
HM Pitje was designated as a training facility for teams participating in the 2010 Soccer World Cup; however, it never materialised due to non-compliance with occupational safety regulations.
The 60 000-seater Odi stadium was built by the erstwhile homeland government Bophuthatswana in the 1980s. It was subsequently transferred to the City after the collapse of the former bantustan.
It hosted big teams like Sundowns, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs in its heyday.
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