Monte Vista Casino is steadily undergoing an impressive transformation into the highly anticipated Monte Vista Sports Facility, poised to revolutionise Newcastle’s sporting sector for generations to come. This significant development follows the oversight visit conducted by the MEC for Sports, Arts, and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, on Saturday, 30 November 2024.
The Newcastle Municipality’s Communications Unit explained that the oversight visit was aimed at assessing progress on two pivotal projects: the Monte Vista Sports Facility and the Osizweni Arts Centre.
These initiatives represent a strong commitment to enhancing sports and arts infrastructure within the region.
During his visit to the Monte Vista Sports Facility, MEC Khawula inspected various facilities, including the multipurpose fields, the 7-a-side soccer pitch, an outdoor gym, and the newly constructed change rooms. He also engaged with the project team, local stakeholders, and community members to receive feedback on the project’s progress and its anticipated impact. This followed a report alleging that the project had not commenced despite significant funds being allocated.
“The Premier has requested that I visit the Monte Vista Sportsfield, since he has received a letter from the ActionSA Leader in KZN with claims that millions have been paid by my Department; but the project never took place. I’m very happy about what I see today,” said MEC Khawula, expressing his satisfaction with the work underway.
In March 2024, Newcastillian News reported that the Newcastle Municipality was in the process of converting the former casino facilities into a cutting-edge sports complex. This extensive project includes a wide range of upgrades and new features, such as:
- Construction of change rooms and toilets
- Installation of an irrigation system, pump, and storage tanks
- Grassing for soccer fields
- Construction of a 7-a-side pitch
- Development of an outdoor gym
- Parking rehabilitation
- Rugby field
- Cricket field
- Hockey court
- Tennis court
- Skateboard park
To read more on the project which is set to cost R160 million and to be complete by 2027, click here.
In addition to the Monte Vista Sports Facility, MEC Khawula visited the Osizweni Arts Centre, which is also funded by his department. The centre is undergoing significant renovations to create an environment that supports local artists in showcasing their talents. The upgrades include enhancements to the building and the addition of new facilities, aimed at fostering creativity and artistic expression in the region.
MEC Khawula expressed his satisfaction with the progress at both sites and encouraged the respective project teams to maintain their dedication to completing these developments successfully.
Newcastle’s Mayor, Councillor Xolani Dube, warmly welcomed the MEC’s visit, highlighting it as a demonstration of the provincial government’s commitment to local development. “The municipality is confident that the Monte Vista Sports Facility and the Osizweni Arts Centre will become hubs for sports, arts, and culture in the region, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among residents,” concluded the Newcastle Municipality’s Communications Unit.
As Newcastle takes bold strides towards fostering sports, arts, and cultural growth, the community is invited to share their views on these developments. Share your views in the comment section below.
Comments 1
It’s a honourable thing for our leaders to develop such facilities to encourage youth to participate in sports,art and cultural activities.Let’s be also vigilant for corruption which may lead to this project not being completed in time.