MULTIMILLION-RAND UPGRADE UNDERWAY AT VAN ZYL STREET SPORTS GROUNDS

Langeberg Municipality has commenced an R8 million project to upgrade the Van Zyl Street sports grounds in Robertson, aimed at strengthening local sporting infrastructure and expanding opportunities for sport development, community use, and regional events.

The project is primarily funded through R7.4 million from the Municipal Infrastructure Grant (MIG), which includes the municipal contribution as per the 2026/27 budget, with an additional R619,000 allocated by the Provincial Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS).

“Langeberg Municipality is investing in the upgrade of the Van Zyl Street sports grounds to strengthen the local sporting community and expand development opportunities for youth across the municipal area. The project will enhance facilities to better support training, participation (both recreational and competitive), and long-term athlete development in Robertson. In addition, the upgraded facility will create opportunities for economic growth by enabling the hosting of regional and provincial tournaments. This will also promote sport tourism within the Langeberg municipal area,” said Mrs Lenchen April, Manager: Community Facilities.

Upgrading of rugby and soccer fields
The main rugby field (Field A), located within the athletics track, is undergoing full reconstruction. This includes removal of existing topsoil and compaction of the sub-base to engineering standards to ensure a stable and even playing surface. A second field (Field B), located to the west of the track, is being developed to accommodate both rugby and soccer, increasing capacity for training and match-day use.

A subsurface drainage system is also being installed to improve water runoff and ensure year-round usability, particularly during the winter rainfall season.

Both fields will be grassed and treated in accordance with soil analysis to support healthy surface growth.

Six-lane athletics track
A key feature of the project is the construction of a six-lane grass athletics track surrounding the main field.

Cricket practice nets
The project also includes the construction of new enclosed cricket practice nets to support safe and structured training.

Cloakroom facilities
Existing cloakrooms will be fully refurbished to improve amenities for players and facility users.

High-mast lighting
High-mast lighting will also be installed to support evening match hosting and enhance safety in the area.

Public access and safety during construction
No unauthorised access to the facility is permitted during the construction period.

Residents are urged to respect site boundaries to ensure public safety and to protect infrastructure as work progresses.

All works are being carried out in accordance with applicable standards to ensure a safe, durable, and high-quality facility for the community.

Langeberg Municipality will continue to provide regular updates on the progress of the project.