Athlone, Cape Town

Athlone - 7764 

Introduction 

Athlone is a vibrant suburb of Cape Town, situated to the east of the city center on the Cape Flats, just south of the N2 highway. Known for its rich cultural heritage and strong sense of community, it is primarily a residential area, although it also features industrial and commercial zones. The suburb is home to several important landmarks, including the Athlone Stadium and the decommissioned Athlone Power Station. 

Features 

Athlone is home to several notable features. The Athlone Stadium is a versatile venue that hosts sports events, concerts, and community gatherings. With a seating capacity of over 20,000 spectators, it offers facilities like suites, change rooms, and a multipurpose sports field. The Athlone Power Station, though decommissioned, remains a significant landmark that serves as a reminder of the suburb's industrial past. The Trojan Horse Memorial commemorates the 1985 Trojan Horse Incident, where three anti-apartheid protesters were killed in a police ambush. Athlone CBD and Gatesville are the commercial hubs of the area, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and services to meet the needs of the local community. Additionally, the suburb features several community facilities, including libraries, parks, and recreational centers, fostering a strong community spirit. 

History 

Athlone has a rich and complex history. Originally known as West London, the area was renamed in honor of Alexander Cambridge, the 1st Earl of Athlone, who served as Governor-General of the Union of South Africa from 1924 to 1930. The suburb also played a significant role in the anti-apartheid movement, witnessing key events such as the Trojan Horse Incident and the deaths of ANC activists Robert Waterwitch and Colleen Williams. 

Climate 

Athlone experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers from November to March, with average high temperatures around 27°C and low temperatures around 18°C. Winters, from June to August, are mild and wet, with average highs around 18°C and lows around 8°C, and most of the area's annual rainfall occurs during this period. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall, creating a comfortable climate year-round. 

Property Market 

Athlone offers a diverse property market, with various types of assets available. Single-family homes are common, providing spacious living areas and private gardens. Townhouses strike a balance between space and low maintenance, making them appealing to families and professionals. Apartments come in various sizes, catering to singles, couples, and small families. The area also presents attractive investment opportunities due to affordable property prices and the potential for rental income. 

Market Trends 

The property market in Athlone has shown steady growth, reflecting the area's increasing popularity. There is a high demand for rental properties, driven by the area's proximity to amenities and transport links. Ongoing development projects and infrastructure improvements further enhance the investment potential of Athlone. 

Suburbs 

Athlone is surrounded by several notable suburbs, each contributing to the area's dynamic environment. Gatesville is known for its bustling commercial area, with a variety of shops and services. Rylands is predominantly residential, featuring a mix of houses and townhouses. Belgravia Estate is known for its larger homes and tree-lined streets. Bridgetown offers a blend of residential and commercial properties, providing a range of amenities. Hazendal is a residential suburb with a strong sense of community and local facilities. These features collectively contribute to the appeal and functionality of Athlone, making it a desirable location for both residents and visitors. 

Proximity to Key Points 

Athlone is strategically located on the Cape Flats, east of Cape Town's city center, offering excellent connectivity to key points in the region. The N2 highway runs to the north of Athlone, providing easy access to the CBD and other areas of Cape Town. The central business district is just 10 kilometers away, making Athlone a convenient location for commuters. The N1 highway also provides access to the Northern Suburbs, a short drive from the area. Cape Town International Airport is approximately 15 kilometers away, accessible via the N2 highway, while the Port of Cape Town is around 12 kilometers from Athlone, reachable through the N2 and M3 highways. 

Schools 

Athlone is home to several educational institutions that cater to a wide range of students. Notable schools include Garlandale High School on General Street, LEAP Science and Maths School on Thornton Road, and Athlone High School on Calendula Road. The area also has primary schools such as Garlandale Primary School on General Street and Alicedale Primary School on Elizabeth Drive, offering local educational opportunities for residents. 

Healthcare 

Athlone offers various healthcare facilities to meet the needs of its residents. Athlone Medi Health, a general practice located at the corner of 1st Avenue and Klipfontein Road in Silvertown, provides primary care. The Sarah Fox Hospital, located on Petunia Road in Silvertown, offers district and provincially aided hospital services. Additionally, Braude's Pharmacy serves the local community with pharmaceutical needs. 

Recreational Facilities 

Athlone provides a range of recreational facilities to its residents. The Athlone Civic Centre is a central venue for community events and sports activities. Vygieskraal Stadium, located in Mowbray, offers various sports facilities, while the Fezeka Sports Centre in Gugulethu provides indoor sports amenities for those looking to stay active. 

Safety 

Safety in Athlone is supported by local law enforcement. The Athlone Police Station, located on Bisset Street, offers 24-hour services to the community. Additionally, active community policing initiatives help engage residents in addressing safety concerns and enhancing the overall security of the area. 

Transport 

Athlone is well-served by public transport and major roads. Public transport options include bus and taxi routes, as well as the Cape Flats railway line, providing easy access to and from the area. However, Cape Town faces significant traffic congestion, with a Traffic Index of 30%, which means longer travel times during peak hours. 

Community and Lifestyle 

Athlone is a vibrant cultural hub with a diverse community. The area is known for its rich history and cultural diversity, particularly the Cape Malay and Indian communities. It also has a thriving industrial sector, with numerous businesses and services. The community hosts various events and activities throughout the year, helping to foster a strong sense of belonging and connection among residents. 

Religious Institutes 

Athlone, Cape Town, is home to a range of religious institutions serving different beliefs and communities. Notable religious establishments include St. Marks Church, an Anglican church on Bamford Avenue in Rondebosch East, and the Masjidul Quds Institute, a prominent mosque on Balu Parker Blvd. Additionally, Calvyn Protestant Church in Kewtown is a Reformed, Presbyterian church, while the Bridgetown Mosque on Cornflower Street caters to the local Muslim population. The Darul Islam Boys Hafith Institute, located at Darul Islam Masjid on Gonubie Road, offers Islamic education to the community. 

Nightlife 

Athlone offers a modest nightlife scene, with several popular spots to enjoy. Club 7764 is a lively nightclub, lounge, and sports bar located at Athlone Kismet Plaza Building. The Address Club, an upmarket nightclub and bistro, is situated at 13 Old Klipfontein Road. For more casual options, McDonald's Athlone Drive-thru and Chicken Licken Athlone, both located on Klipfontein Road, offer quick dining experiences. 

Shops 

Athlone offers a diverse range of shops to meet various needs. Vangate Mall, located on Jakes Gerwel Drive, is a major shopping center featuring a variety of retail stores, including Cell C and The FIX. For pet lovers, Megs Mutts Pet Shop and Rescue, located at 57 Herbrand Street, Hazendal, provides pet supplies and rescue services. Anchor Hardware, situated at 24 Lawrence Road, offers a wide selection of paint, plumbing, electrical, and household hardware. Additionally, Savoury Kitchen, located at 4 Reene Road, Athlone Industria 1, caters to bakeries, caterers, and retail food shops. 

Popular Complexes 

Athlone also boasts several popular residential and recreational complexes. The Rygate LFA Johnson Road Sport Complex, located on Johnston Road, offers a variety of sports and recreational facilities. Vangate Mall is not only a shopping hub but also features dining options. Athlone Stadium, a multi-purpose facility, hosts sports events and community activities. Lastly, Gateway Mall is another shopping complex offering a mix of retail stores and dining choices, making it a convenient destination for both shopping and leisure.