Wide-ranging upgrades have been completed, including a full replacement of the tartan running track, refurbishments to the grandstands, change rooms, new shade trees, and revamping of the steeple chase arena, triple and long jump sections, hammer throw cage, and javelin area.

‘I’m thrilled to see how this upgrade turned out. The stadium looks beautiful and I know the people of Blue Downs and Mfuleni will enjoy it. We want all community facilities to be at this standard, and that’s what we’re working towards.

This also contributes to safer communities, as youth have something healthy, physical and uplifting to do, instead of getting involved in the wrong crowd. We can’t wait for school kids and athletes from the area to hit this new track running after this major R30m upgrade.

‘For the residents of Blue Downs and Mfuleni, this upgrade means better opportunities for schools, communities, and most importantly, our talented young athletes to reach their full potential, backed by quality sports facilities.
 
‘This is one of several stadiums the City is upgrading to serve as quality recreational hubs across our city. We look forward to more progress ahead on these major sporting upgrades,’ said Mayor Hill-Lewis.
 
The athletics refurbishments are part of a strategic citywide programme guided by a 2021 Athletics Study, with the goal of achieving SASREA compliance and expanding access to facilities across Cape Town. The objective is to secure SASREA grading and ensure safer, more accessible facilities across Cape Town.
 
‘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 the Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.

The Blue Downs stadium is one of various City facilities offering essential support to our partners, including Western Province Athletics, the Western Cape Education Department, and active communities, while the City’s Recreation and Parks Department has had a good working relationship with Western Province Athletics and the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport in terms of coordinating and facilitating the use of athletic facilities by federations, clubs and schools.

The facility is also earmarked as a Regional Recreation Hub with further upgrades on the cards in the coming years.