New life for South Beach problem buildings

The once iconic Palm Beach Hotel and Seamans Institute on Gillespie Street, South Beach, are set to return to the ownership of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works and Infrastructure following extensive renovations.

These buildings, which were formerly illegal occupation hotspots, will soon be restored to their former glory thanks to the intervention of the department.

Steve Bhengu, spokesperson for the department, highlighted the progress during an oversight visit on September 13.

“Our first stop showcased the problem of abandoned inner city buildings, starting with the Palm Beach Hotel. This property, which has been vacant since closing its doors 15 years ago, became a target for material stripping and theft. To combat this, the KZN Department of Public Works and Infrastructure made the decision to barricade the building’s entry points,” Mr Bhengu said.

The second stop of the visit was the Seaman’s Institute and Rest Building, which has seen a different kind of occupation.

Mr Bhengu noted: “The building is now home to a significant number of illegal occupants, many living in dire conditions, including severe overcrowding and unsafe, illegal connections.”

MEC for Public Works, Martin Meyer, said the Seamans Institute building is in the process of being transferred to the eThekwini Municipality. The municipality plans to repurpose the building to address the growing housing shortage in Durban.

“This transfer aligns with our broader strategy,” said Mr Meyer.

“We aim to host a conference before the year’s end to bring together national and provincial governments, alongside the private sector. A unified approach is essential if we are to tackle the issue of abandoned and illegally occupied buildings and find sustainable solutions for housing in the city.”