R27m upgrade to Bishop Lavis Sports Ground complete

A new 11-a-side synthetic soccer pitch and family park has been completed as part of the final stage of a R27m upgrade to the Bishop Lavis Sports Ground.

Previous phases delivered a grassed athletics track, hardcourts, a re-grassed cricket oval, floodlights, newly-constructed access road, parking, fencing and related security enhancements.

"We’ve been working on these major upgrades since the start of this term, and it is unbelievable to see the transformation of these facilities today," said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.

"It’s a joy to think about all the good that will come from Bishop Lavis’ youth using these top-class facilities to realise their full potential. The sky truly is the limit for young athletes, and families can now also enjoy the beautiful park alongside watching their kids achieve on the track, cricket oval, soccer pitch, and hardcourts.

"This upgrade is a shining example of the impact of Cape Town’s SA-record infrastructure investments, 75% of which directly benefit lower-income households and communities."

Over the next three years, communities will benefit from various sports and recreation facility upgrades, including:

• R123 million for sports facilities capital upgrades;
• R66 million for recreation hubs and community hall capital upgrades;
• R171 million for parks and public spaces capital upgrades;
• Over R191 million in library upgrades, equipment, books and subscriptions; and
• Over R95 million for community swimming pool operations and upgrades

Mayco member for Community Services and Health, Francine Higham, said: "This extensive upgrade was delivered in stages over the course of three years, and we look forward to delivering on the many other amenities upgrades planned for communities across Cape Town as part of the City’s record infrastructure investments in the coming years"

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