SOUND POLLUTION: Stadium noise and nuisance put Nelson Mandela Bay residents’ rights on the line

Residents living near the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium have endured years of noise pollution and litter from stadium events, affecting their quality of life. Despite objections from the city’s environmental health unit, a sold-out All White Sing Along Picnic is scheduled to take place on Saturday from 10:00am to 10:30pm. The stadium, managed by the Mandela Bay Development Agency (MBDA), has been a venue for PSL games and events since it was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The environmental health unit expressed concerns in a meeting with stadium management on May 11, 2026. However, the event proceeded despite the unit's objection, confirmed in an email on October 16. The metro spokesperson, Sithembiso Soyaya, stated that the city is monitoring noise levels and working with stadium management and other stakeholders to minimize the impact on surrounding communities.

Councillor Terri Stander, from Ward 5, raised concerns about the noise pollution from the event, highlighting the community's long-standing complaints. She emphasized that the Ward 5 community wants the stadium to generate revenue while ensuring events do not infringe on their right to a healthy environment. Despite repeated petitions and pleas, no corrective action has been taken.

MBDA spokesperson Nicole Klawkow addressed the noise management issue, stating that sound levels will be monitored continuously during the event, and various measures will be implemented to minimize noise levels. The city aims to strike a balance between residents' quality of life and the economic and tourism benefits of hosting events at the stadium.