THE Newmarket Stables which has been a fixture of Durban’s equestrian landscape for almost a hundred years has been given a months notice, the end of August, to vacate the premises. According to Nadine Parker, who runs the stables riding school situated on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue (formerly NMR Avenue), the news has been greeted with anger and disappointment. It is believed the grounds will be used for the development of a soccer academy. The new venture will also affect the popular Flea Market which supports around 270 vendors and the Cyril Geoghegan Cycle Stadium.
The stables is home to 48 horses , four of which cannot be re-homed because of their age, and may have to be euthanized. The news has prompted an outcry on social media which has also led to Save Newmarket Stables Facebook page. Parker labelled the municipalities eviction notice as ‘gangsters railroading’ their plan.
“We offer a 100 children riding lessons as well as livery. We are a heritage site, catering to disabled riders and able bodied riders making is affordable for Durban and surrounding areas children to learn ride. These ponies are precious, not just to me, but to the hundreds of children who we help on a daily basis.
“There was no consultation and we were given the eviction notice just yesterday. If the municipality has plants they should be talking to us.We are angry and upset. The support shown by residents so far has been amazing. Right now we are trying to save the stables and the horses. This is bigger than just me, it affects hundreds of local residents,” Parker said.
She added the stables were planning to take the matter to the High Court but the decision was dependent on funding that they are trying to raise through their Facebook page.
