PETITION AGAINST THE CONSTRUCTION OF PADEL COURTS AT NOORDHOEK GARDEN EMPORIUM (Erf 4816, 2 KATZENELLENBOGEN STREET)

I strongly oppose the proposed construction of padel courts at the Noordhoek Garden Emporium and urge the relevant authorities to reject the application based on the following concerns that I have (wholly or in part):  

1. Noise and Light Pollution The proposed padel courts will operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, generating continuous noise and bright lighting that will severely disrupt the peaceful, rural character of this part of Noordhoek. The proposed padel courts will be situated only 15 metres from the closest house (!) The noise nuisance will emanate from the ball hitting hard surfaces such as bats and walls, as well from players’ enthusiasm, the noise of entertainment around the courts and cleaning up after closing time. Similar developments in urban areas of Cape Town have led to widespread complaints from residents regarding excessive noise and light pollution. In some cases residents have been forced to move due to ill effects on their health by the padel noise. 

The placement of these courts so close to residential homes will negatively impact the well-being of local residents as well as those of Dassenheuwel and Crofter’s Valley, many of whom chose Noordhoek for its tranquil environment. Furthermore, in other areas where padel courts have been erected, it has negatively affected surrounding residential property values, and padel courts which were proposed to be built behind Longbeach Mall were not approved owing to the negative noise impact on residents living nearby.

2. Increased Traffic and Safety Risks The Noordhoek Garden Emporium is located on the corner of Katzenellenbogen Street and Noordhoek Main Road, which already experiences frequent car accidents. The addition of a padel facility will significantly increase traffic congestion, putting additional strain on an already hazardous section of Noordhoek Main Road. The influx of visitors will exacerbate existing safety concerns for motorists, pedestrians, horses and horse riders. Visitor numbers are already causing an overflow of parking within the Noordhoek Garden Emporium, leading to parking on verges and on the opposite side of Katzenellenbogen Street as well obstructing pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and turning vehicles. Padel courts will increase this congestion.

3. Threat to Noordhoek’s Horse-Riding Community Noordhoek is renowned for its equestrian culture, and many riders rely on safe passage past the Noordhoek Garden Emporium to cross Noordhoek Main Road and to access the Noordhoek wetlands. The added traffic, noise, and unpredictable activity from the padel courts pose a significant risk to both riders and horses as sudden noises and increased traffic can easily startle horses, increasing the likelihood of accidents and endangering both riders and motorists.

4. Unjustified Alternative Entrance Proposal Instead of utilising the existing main entrance of the Noordhoek Garden Emporium, the intent is to use a side gate access point via a narrow cul-de-sac (Briony Close). This will create severe traffic congestion and safety hazards for motorists, pedestrians and horse riders who frequently use this quiet lane. The proposed entrance change prioritises commercial interests over community safety and convenience.  

5. Existing Padel Courts in a More Suitable Location There are already established padel courts which are situated a 10-minute drive away at Imhoff’s Gift, which are situated further from residential areas with ample parking and infrastructure to support such an activity. There is no justification for introducing additional courts in the heart of a residential and equestrian community, particularly when a suitable alternative already exists. If padel courts were to be constructed in Noordhoek then the Noordhoek Sportsfield complex across the road would be better suited.  

For the above reasons, I strongly oppose the development of padel courts at the Noordhoek Garden Emporium and request that the application be rejected in the best interests of the Noordhoek community, its residents, and its long-standing equestrian heritage.  

Please can you ensure that you fill in your Name, Surname, Physical Adress and Signature as these are all needed for the City of Cape Town to accept the petition according to the  Municipal Planning By-Law 2015 item 91. Your details will only be used to send along with this petition to the City of Cape Town and not for any of other purposes.