In a bold move aimed at breathing new life into Durban's Central Business District (CBD), the eThekwini Municipality has rolled out extensive plans to revitalise the inner city, bolster business confidence, and attract tourists.
Spearheaded by City Manager Musa Mbhele, the Inner-City Regeneration Strategy (ICRS) is gaining momentum with 14 work streams driving the implementation of a multifaceted approach.
Mr Mbhele emphasised the city's unwavering commitment to transforming the Durban CBD into a pivotal economic, leisure, and residential hub.
"The Durban CBD is one of the most critical areas in the eThekwini region. It is an important rates base, a key economic hub due to its proximity to the port, and with the city's beaches, it holds significance as a tourism and leisure area,” he said.
With an ambitious timeline set to achieve significant gains by year-end, the strategy encompasses a range of actions, including but not limited to enforcement, urban renewal, transport planning, safety and security measures, waste management, engineering solutions, public realm management, and addressing illegal trade and homelessness.
The envisioned future cityscape includes pedestrianised streets in key areas, cleaner and safer environments, an aesthetically pleasing public realm, improved infrastructure, and increased social housing. The transformative Marina Development and Centrum Development projects are poised to reshape the city permanently, aiming to position Durban as Africa's leading, most vibrant, liveable, and walkable city centre.
The ICRS, adopted in 2017, has witnessed successes in recent years, such as the upgrade of the Point Precinct, the creation of a new promenade, the revitalization of the Rivertown area, the Anton Lembede upgrade, and the enhancement of precincts leading from the beach to the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. Additionally, strides have been made in upgrading the water reticulation and sewer systems in the Mahatma Gandhi precinct.
Mr Mbhele said the establishment of the Problem Buildings Division stands out as a successful initiative that is “diligently working to eliminate problematic structures in the CBD”.
“Despite achievements, the city remains focused on addressing challenges, including illegal trading, crime, and homelessness. Future plans include engaging with key stakeholders to ensure sustained progress in transforming Durban's inner city into a thriving and welcoming urban center,” said Mr Mbhele.