Residents push back against Kliprivier padel development
Neighbours say the unapproved sports facility was built first and only legalised later — in defiance of a municipal stop order that was allegedly ignored.
MIDVAAL – A newly built padel court in Kookrus, a quiet residential area, has sparked public outcry, with neighbours claiming it was constructed illegally and without municipal approval.
The courts, located on Erf 248 Kliprivier and operated by Padel Mania, were reportedly built in December 2024 without approved building plans, zoning permission, or environmental studies.
According to a formal objection from Magda-Marié Swart, a neighbour, a stop notice was issued by the Midvaal Local Municipality, but ignored.
The application for consent use and the removal of restrictive title deed conditions was only submitted months later, once the facility was complete.
Residents complain about noise, floodlights, traffic, and the visual impact of the structure in an area zoned Residential 1.
They argue that the development violates the Midvaal Land Use Scheme and undermines proper public participation.
Swart also questioned claims that padel is a community sport, citing rates of R320 to R400 per hour as exclusionary.
Developers Hendrik and Belinda Bothma have since responded through their appointed planner, saying they are cooperating fully with the municipality.
Town planner Danika Prinsloo acknowledged that construction began before full land use compliance, but said the process to formalise the application started in February 2025, before a contravention notice was issued.
She said noise and light studies were not legally required at submission, though the developers are willing to conduct them if requested.
They also plan to add sound-reducing panels and more trees to limit disturbance.
Prinsloo said the project supports Midvaal’s growth and spatial planning framework and represents private investment in local recreation.
She added that the facility’s fees cover upkeep and security, keeping it sustainable and accessible to small groups of players.
“The fact that a development has already occurred does not exempt it from scrutiny,” Prinsloo said, adding that any approval would still be subject to municipal conditions.
Midvaal MMC for Development and Planning, councillor Thembi Maduna, said the application is still being processed and no further details can be shared until a decision is reached.
