HIGH hopes are being placed on the current refurbishment of the Moses Mabhida Stadium to revive eThekwini’s ailing tourism sector.

An amount of R236 million has been approved by Council to rehabilitate the 2010 World Cup stadium back to its former glory with a new sky car taking it to greater heights of entertainment.

The 15-year-old stadium is showing signs of wear and tear which has been a major concern for the public, with some questioning its ability to host major events and soccer matches with cracks on the walls visible to the naked eye. Showing a sign of confidence in the building’s structure and safety, the mayor of eThekwini Municipality, Councillor Cyril Xaba, held his 100 days in office address at the stadium where he announced major upgrades to Moses Mabhida.

Also Read: Moses Mabhida Stadium Rehabilitation Programme underway

He said, “We want to assure all our stakeholders that the venue is structurally sound, and it will continue to host major events while the repairs are ongoing. This has been approved and certified by engineers. The refurbishments form part of the stadium’s routine maintenance programme to ensure that the facility remains world-class and continues to attract major sporting events and gatherings,” said Xaba.

This was echoed by Derek Penhall, the lead engineer on the project, who said the refurbishment of the stadium is scheduled to be completed within the current financial year. He said the new-look Moses Mabhida Stadium will be a bright feature in the Durban skyline and activities venue.

Also Read: 5 exciting activities to enjoy at Moses Mabhida Stadium

“The aim is to have everything up and running by the summer of 2025, ready in time for tourist season. Most of the work currently being undertaken is about the durability of the stadium, which is in perfect structural condition, so that it can be maintained as an operational facility. We are improving the longevity of the stadium and, at the same time, making key upgrades. It is an efficiency thing,” said Penhall.

The new features of the stadium will include an arch and bowl lighting with an option for a colour theme and a new sky car with a high-spec cabin and increased travel time for enhanced user experience. The sky car will be able to travel in higher winds and be accessible to disabled persons. It will have a new viewing platform and a 60% increase in floor area.

Penhall said there will be a high-spec cantilevered glass floor for an ‘air walk’ experience. “There will be a new docking station featuring a visitor’s reception area with enhanced visitor experience. A new big swing will also be installed and a new zip line, compression ring walk and sea-facing bungee jump option,” added Penhall.

Xaba said the stadium has become one of the key tourist attractions in the city – helping to create jobs and generate much-needed revenue for the city. “We have no doubt that these upgrades will not only guarantee the commercial viability of the stadium but they will also improve the safety of residents and visitors. This is in line with our vision of building resilient infrastructure that is aligned with evolving technological advancements.”

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