Take a look: Durban’s new R380 million beachfront promenade upgrade is nearly done

(Instagram, @dronedad81)

• An R380 million expansion of Durban’s promenade will likely be completed before the end of the year, eThekwini mayor said. 
• The 750-metre expansion links the Umgeni River mouth with the Blue Lagoon area, and will provide space for new restaurants and cafes. 
• The hope is that it will increase tourism in the area, and unlock R35 billion in investment. 
• For more stories go to www.BusinessInsider.co.za.

The R380 million expansion of Durban’s famous promenade is set to open before the end of the year, in time for the busy festive season, City of eThekwini mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said.

The 750-metre expansion will see the Umgeni River mouth connected to the Blue Lagoon area, allowing tourists easy access to the popular uShaka Marine World. 

(screenshot, Facebook EThekwini Municipality)

(Facebook, POINT WATERFRONT REALTY)

(Facebook, POINT WATERFRONT REALTY)

It includes public amenities such as change rooms, public bathrooms, a lifeguard lookout point, and new restaurants and cafes. It will be 30 metres in width.

(Facebook, POINT WATERFRONT REALTY)

(Facebook, POINT WATERFRONT REALTY)

Beneath the promenade, dedicated parking for water-sport clubs and public parking will also be provided. 

Construction started in January 2018, and was supposed to be completed by the end of September, Traveller24 reported.

Kaunda said the hope is that the new development will increase tourism growth in the area, stimulating economic growth. 

The expansion, which forms part of the larger Durban Point development, will unlock R35 billion investment in the area, Kaunda said. 

The various phases of the Durban Point development (screenshot, Durban Point)

An artist impression how the Durban Point development will look like once completed (supplied, Durban Point)

An artists impression of the Durban Point development promenade once completed (Durban Point development)

Further phases include the construction of several residential and commercial towers, taller than 55 storeys, which will ultimately link to the planned cruise terminal. 

Also read: Here’s what MSC Cruises’ new R200 million terminal in Durban will look like

This project is seen as a catalyst for the redevelopment and regeneration of the entire inner-City. 

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