Killarney Country Club lease dispute stirs concern and community support
A lease dispute between Killarney Country Club and the City of Joburg prompts community outcry and a petition to protect this 122-year-old green space.
The Killarney Country Club (KCC), a long-standing part of Johannesburg’s sporting and social landscape, is currently involved in a legal dispute with the Johannesburg Property Company (JPC) over the validity of its lease agreement.
This matter has sparked concern and community support.
KCC President Elect Darryn Faulds confirmed that the club holds a notarial lease, registered at the Deeds Office, which runs until July 2040. However, he acknowledged that litigation had been underway since 2021 following two breach notices from the JPC. These notices relate to unauthorised signage and the operation of a commercial restaurant on the premises.
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“These issues predated the current committee, but we took steps to address them immediately,” said Faulds. Despite this, a notice to terminate the lease was issued by the JPC, and the matter was taken to court. The club responded with its legal application to have the termination set aside.
A court date has now been set for August 13 this year. In the meantime, Faulds said discussions between the club and the JPC have recently shown positive progress, with hopes of settling the matter before it reaches court.
Public interest in the case has grown, particularly following the circulation of a petition by the Lower Houghton Residents Association (LHRA). The petition expresses concern about the possible consequences should the land return to city control, raising issues around security, urban decay, and the loss of green space.
Faulds said the club was not approached before the petition’s release, but welcomed the show of support. “The club has served the community for over 120 years. We see the petition as a reflection of that long-standing relationship.” He also noted that the club continued to provide regular updates to members and was committed to transparency.
According to a letter sent to members, the club believes it has complied with lease obligations and remains confident about its legal position. Faulds added that should the court rule in the club’s favour, it will remain in occupation of the premises under the current lease, subject to any appeals.
When contacted, JPC spokesperson Lucky Sindane said, “The lease has been cancelled due to breach of contract, but both parties are working towards a resolution. There is no eviction process underway.” He added that the club had initiated the legal proceedings and that the city remained committed to resolving the matter amicably.
While it remains unclear whether the LHRA will formally intervene in the litigation, Faulds said the club would consider any such application in consultation with its legal team. “The door remains open for engagement, and we continue to prioritise a constructive outcome for all parties.”
For now, the club’s daily operations continue as normal, with Faulds emphasising that their focus remains on serving members, investing in community-facing projects, and preserving the property for future generations.
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