Pushback causes Noordhoek padel courts to be shelved

PUSHBACK from residents has led to the shelving of plans to build three outdoor padel courts at the Noordhoek Garden Emporium.

- ERIN CARELSE

The developer, Brendhan Kannemeyer, announced on Monday that he would no longer pursue the project, which had drawn concern over noise, safety, and incompatibility with the area’s rural character.

In a letter to residents dated April 13, Kannemeyer acknowledged the controversy surrounding the padel courts, saying it was never his intention to divide the Noordhoek community.

“Whilst I strongly believe that padel courts meet the criteria of providing services that Noordhoek residents want and need, it has become a controversial matter that has divided the community,’ he wrote.

“This goes against my intentions.”

Instead, Kannemeyer said he would focus on alternative enhancements to the site, including additional retail space, a restaurant, a wellness centre, and a small office park. He also unveiled plans to lease a portion of land adjacent to the emporium to con-