Iconic Bellville Veledrome tipped for R300m upgrade

The upgrade of the Bellville Velodrome and the surrounding precinct has been set at R300million.

Cape Town Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis, has welcomed the contract with the yet to be announced international events company, saying that it will benefit communities and the economy. However, there is concern that the key public facility was allowed to be run-down, instead of being properly maintained.

Hill-Lewis says that the contract stipulates that the City will still facilitate public use of the venue, but it is unclear how the company will benefit from the arrangement.

Recent decisions surrounding the proposed upgrade of the Velodrome in Cape Town have sparked widespread debate, reflecting both the facility’s historic importance and the complexity of its future development.

The City of Cape Town said it is still investigating options for the velodrome’s future, including whether to proceed with redevelopment, restoration, or alternative uses. Importantly, officials have stated that no final decision has yet been taken, signalling a cautious approach to what is considered a major public asset.