AFTER "years of frustrating delays" in the development of Durban's Point Waterfront as a "world-class" tourism attraction comes the announcement of an agreement between the Durban Metropolitan Council (DMC) and a private partner.
This move, in conjunction with Moreland Development - a division of the Tongaat-Hulett group - will put the development on the "fast-track", with Phase 1 open to tourists by December 2000.
DMC chairperson, Margaret Winter, says the development's main focus will be the R100m oceanarium adjacent to Vetch's Pier
"Research has shown that, worldwide, aquaria are regarded as primary tourist facilities, drawing local, national and international visitors."
Winter says the oceanarium will extend into the Indian Ocean from Vetch's Pier and will be developed in conjunction with the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) and its subsidiary, Oceanographic Research Institute (ORI).
The 20-hectare council-owned property will also include hotels, other tourist attractions, retail centres and residential components, explains Winter.
In terms of the development agreement, the DMC will invest approximately R120m in the provision of the relevant road infrastructure, including an arterial link road and an interchange.
(Adéle Mackenzie)
