Braving adverse weather, Somerset West residents gathered at Charles Morkel Hall in Strand on July 12th to voice their strong opposition to the proposed relocation of the Caledon casino to their community.
The Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board called the session to review Tsogo Sun’s application to move its Caledon casino from the Overberg to the Helderberg. Earlier this year, the board invited interested parties to submit their objections by May 27th, following public outcry during the initial consultation period last August.
The public hearing kicked off with Rajesh Dullabh, Tsogo Sun’s director for Business Intelligence and Analytics, presenting the proposed R1.1 billion project. The plan includes a stand-alone casino complex and a resort destination, promising multiple economic and social benefits for the region.
Big Promises from Tsogo Sun
Dullabh highlighted the phased construction of a casino, starting with a 10,000 m² development and expanding to 15,000 m² in later stages. He also mentioned a R70 million refurbishment of the existing Caledon complex into a resort featuring a hotel, spa, thermal mineral-water spring amenities, and more. “We are committed to community engagement and economic development, including preferential procurement from B-BBEE compliance and locally based suppliers,” Dullabh assured.
Lynton January, general manager of the Caledon complex, emphasised Tsogo Sun’s commitment to corporate social investment (CSI), earmarking R15 million for local schools and organisations within the first year. Additionally, collaborating with the provincial government aims to invest R40 million in improving the N2 corridor and local townships.
Location Controversies and Concerns
The proposed casino would occupy six of the 22 hectares of the former Somerset West Golf Course. The land was rezoned in 2020 to allow for this development. Dullabh assured the casino would feature stringent security measures, including 24-hour surveillance.
However, not everyone is convinced. Somerset West resident Pieter Human raised severe concerns about the economic and social impacts of the casino, arguing that it could harm local businesses and attract vulnerable populations. “A liquor store on every corner would be viable too, but that doesn’t mean we should allow it,” he noted.
Legal and Ethical Debates
Geoff Budlender, the legal representative for Tsogo Sun, responded to objections by clarifying that the casino license would only be transferred, not a new one issued. He dismissed general criticisms of gambling as irrelevant to the board’s role. “There will be gambling; the question is where it should be located,” he stated.
Despite assurances, residents like Chris Whacker urged the board to consider community values and common sense, arguing against placing a government-supported gambling facility near schools and vulnerable communities.
What’s Next?
The debate continues as the board reviews the numerous objections and comments from the hearing. The casino’s future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Somerset West residents are not backing down without a fight.
