A look at Durban’s new R380 million promenade upgrade

The multi-million upgrade to Durban’s beachfront promenade will be completed by the start of the 2019 holiday season, says Ethekwini municipality mayor Mxolisi Kaunda.

Speaking at an event on Wednesday (23 October), Kaunda said that the promenade extension cost R380 million, forming a small portion of the R35 billion Point Waterfront Development which aims overhaul the entire area and further attract investment and tourists to the vicinity.

He said that the promenade will effectively link uShaka marine world with the areas most popular beaches. This linkage will help attract tourists and investors to the area, he said.

The promenade will be 30 metres wide and will run from uShaka Marine World to Vetch’s Pier.

On the northern side of the promenade, beach facilities and amenities will include change rooms, ablutions for bathers and staff facilities.

Public parking and dedicated parking for water-sport clubs will also be provided beneath the promenade.

As part of his walkthrough on Wednesday, Kaunda also showed off an amphitheatre, pedestrian ramps and new lifeguard towers.

Durban point development

The Durban point development aims to completely transform Durban’s prime beachfront property into a massive mixed-use waterfront.

The final build will include hotels, residential apartments, office parks and retail developments – and will also see a new cruise ship terminal constructed nearby.

Among the proposed list of developments , are a large number of resorts, hotels and lodges that are expected to be built in around KZN’s tourist hotspots.

Now years in development, the precinct is only expected to be completed after 2022.