The City’s Recreation and Parks Department opened the doors to a newly upgraded sports clubhouse at Maitland Garden Village Sports field at a launch event earlier today. The small field is at the centre of a soccer-loving community, where the historical Garden Village Football Club was established in 1926 and is still a prominent part of youth development in the area.
The community identified the need for a clubhouse on the field a few years ago, where clubs could hold meetings regularly and where small-scale formal events could take place.
Following consultation with the local ward councillor and the Recreation and Parks Department, the relevant stakeholders combined their skills and resources to bring their vision to life.
Construction started in May 2021 and was completed within seven months.
The total cost of the project is approximately R1 143 818.
The new upgrade is an addition to the old ablution block, also refurbished as part of the project. The extended building now includes a modern, enclosed communal hall overlooking the field.
The hall boasts a new kitchenette with modern fittings. The thoughtful design feels bright and spacious, with plenty of natural light shining through a wall made up of a grid of glass panels, overlooking the green field.
In the final phase of the project, security screens will be installed to protect the facility from vandalism, before the end of the current 2021/22 financial year.
‘Good collaboration and close community relations over the years enabled the project to be a great success. The valuable contribution made by the architects who provided their services pro bono, can also not go unmentioned. For players and spectators, the clubhouse is a welcome addition, providing seating and shelter during bad weather, but it’s also a place now where the community can gather for events or family functions. The City is really proud of what has been achieved here, and we hope that the community feels the same, and will help us keep the facility in tip top shape,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van der Ross.
Following the formalities, locals enjoyed supporting a few friendly matches between U7, U9 and U11 players.
Although soccer is a popular favourite, the field can accommodate a variety of sporting codes.
For bookings of the field or the clubhouse, please contact the Recreation and Parks Department on 021 444 5799.