eThekwini Upgrades Rivertown Precinct to boost ICC-beachfront connectivity

Upgrades are underway in eThekwini, the city is making improvements to the Rivertown Precinct that will see an improved interface between the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) and the beachfront. The upgrades form part of the Inner-city Regeneration Strategy that aims to improve the inner city to bring it on par with other world-class cities.

Bounded by Stanger, Sylvester Ntuli, Monty Naicker, and Bram Fischer Streets, this precinct is of historical and cultural significance as it once was home to the Rivertown Beerhall. Building on this historical value, the city now aims to make this precinct a cultural and entertainment hub that embraces the Durban beachfront lifestyle that brings a lively vibe. This includes having street and outdoor spaces which become open-air galleries and stages for performance, while addressing safety in the precinct, said Ward 26 Councillor Sbusisi Lushaba.

“With the area being used as a thoroughfare between the beachfront hotels and the Durban ICC, the city saw the opportunity to upgrade the area and introduce a new precinct that can be enjoyed by tourists and locals alike,” said Councillor Lushaba. “The city began upgrades to the area in 2021. This involved an upgrade of the existing sidewalks with new paving installed and the closure of certain through lanes including John Milne as well as the rationalisation of parking throughout the precinct. Nibs at intersections to improve pedestrian safety and the introduction of a series of islands along Hunter Street for safe pedestrian crossings was also implemented.”

This upgrade is the first phase of further plans to turn the area into a hub of opportunity for small businesses, said Councillor Lushaba. The vision is to build on the historical context of the precinct and create opportunities for catalytic development to happen, he added.

With a further R3.8 million budget now being made available, the city aims to upgrade the area further by planting trees and the installation of murals as well as the installation of way findings signage, seating, and security kiosks. The establishment of an arts and craft market with food stalls, entertainment and other attractions is also on the cards as a future project, the Councillor said. The city aims to incrementally upgrade the area until the full vision is realised.

The city is calling on businesses and other stakeholders in the area to engage with eThekwini Municipality and provide their input into the development of the precinct. Interested stakeholders can email: Kamalen.gounden@durban.gov.za