DURBAN’S beachfront will soon boast up-market developments which form an integral part of the City’s Proactive Land Release Strategy. The strategy, adopted in September 2021, enables the Municipality to be proactive in alienating surplus land, assisting the City to achieve its developmental objectives, stimulate economic activity and black economic empowerment, as well as promote economic transformation in the property sector.

Head of the City’s Real Estate Unit Thapelo Mmusinyane explained: “In the period between May 2021 and November 2022, a total of 25 properties were advertised and 10 awards were made to new lessees. All 10 awards were made to companies that are 100% owned by historically disadvantaged individuals. On the beachfront in particular, properties that have been affected are Circus Circus, Bike and Bean, and Minitown.” These developments do not just affect tourism, but they accelerate economic empowerment through job creation. Bike and Bean will transform into North Beach Lifestyle, a restaurant that has seen a R300 000 investment injection, with a cool yet classy vibe and will create approximately 15 jobs after the revamp is completed. 

The popular Circus Circus is currently being renovated to a stunning fusion of Africanism and Art Deco and will be christened Durban Beach Café. The vision of this establishment is to create an iconic tourism destination restaurant while capturing the spirit of the City. The anticipated opening for this venue is October 2023 and will create 45 jobs after construction, including absorbing the current staff currently employed by Circus Circus. The much loved Minitown, which has been one of the City’s most popular places to visit, will undergo a total transformation, with a mixed-use hotel development which will encompass arts and crafts, kiosks for small businesses, retail spaces, a salon and spa, dining, and others. This will create approximately 150 jobs with a R170 million investment by the lessee on a 30-year lease. EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda welcomed the development.

romita.hanuman@durban.gov.za