Western Cape Board Approves Tsogo Sun Casino Relocation
The Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board has authorized Tsogo Sun’s $63.94 million casino relocation from Caledon to Somerset West after a decade-long approval process, dismissing community objections as unfounded despite fierce local opposition.
Board Overrules Community Concerns
The board’s August 26 ruling officially approved the Helderberg development despite July public hearings where residents raised concerns about gambling addiction, school proximity, crime potential, and small business threats. Many criticized inadequate traffic infrastructure and questioned corporate social investment transparency. The board dismissed objections as “unfounded or based on misunderstandings,” citing minimal public response to comprehensive application documentation.
“The building of the new casino will commence as soon as all municipal authorisations and building plans are in place. The new casino is envisaged to be operational within 24 months, subject to any building-related delays,” the WCGRB stated. The three-phase development will occupy six hectares of former Somerset West Golf Course land, expanding from 10,000m² initially to 15,000m² in the final phase. Tsogo Sun will invest $4.07 million to convert its Caledon complex into a four-star resort with upgraded hotel, spa, thermal springs, and conferencing facilities.
Development Promises Economic and Environmental Benefits
Tsogo Sun committed to creating 164 net jobs and generating provincial tax revenue. The company pledged $872,093 for three Helderberg schools including Solomon Qatyana Primary, Simanyene High, and Gordon High, plus $2.33 million for N2 corridor infrastructure improvements. The facility will feature solar power, water recycling, wetland rehabilitation, and zero-waste goals as South Africa’s first “green casino.”
Independent Lightstone property studies found no negative property value impacts, while commissioned economic analyses supported development benefits for the Helderberg region and broader province. The casino will contribute 1% of annual profits to corporate social investment and increase local procurement. The approval concludes a process beginning over a decade ago, with the 2021 Western Cape High Court ruling declaring policy restrictions unlawful representing a breakthrough moment.
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