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World-famous pier in uMhlanga reopens

The detailed renovations have resulted in striking new mosaics, refreshed paintwork and fully restored lighting, reinstating its timeless allure.

THE R3.2 million refurbishment of the Whalebone Pier has been complete, and locals and tourists get to enjoy the mighty attraction once again.

eThekwini Municpality mayor Mxolisi Kaunda officially opened the award-winning Whalebone Pier on Thursday, following a three-month closure.

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“The main aim of this R3.2-million project was to extend the longevity of the concrete. The pier is a tourist drawcard and remains one of the most photographed places in Durban. The reopening of this project further demonstrates that Durban is ready to deliver a joyous and memorable festive season,” he said.

The 80m-long whalebone pier was opened in 2007 by the then eThekwini mayor, Logie Naidoo, and was structured to get rid of unsightly storm water. In 2014, international broadcaster CNN named the landmark one of the world’s most beautiful piers.

Nicole Bollman, Ward 35 councillor, said the pier has been refurbished using cutting-edge Penetron technology, ensuring superior durability and safeguarding its concrete structure.

“While the first phase impresses with its beauty, the anticipation for the upcoming second phase, featuring additional mosaic work and feature murals by the highly talented Giffy, is scheduled for early next year,” she said.

Chairperson of Umhlanga Tourism Jeanie Sarno said tourism, business and locals welcome the refurbishment.

“The opening of the Whalebone Pier has been a huge success. We’ve had endless enquiries from residents and visitors from the time it closed at the end of August, asking when it will reopen, and we are thrilled. The Whalebone Pier has become the second biggest iconic symbol of Umhlanga,” she said.

She added that millions of rands were spent and that the engineering and safety issues that were done are not visible to the naked eye.

“The mosaic work by Kirsten Miller from Action in Autism brings inspiration to many. This is a great step for promoting our beautiful town and is indeed an asset to uMhlanga,” said Sarno.

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Candyce Krishna

I am Candyce Pillay – fun, energetic and always positive. Community journalism has been a part of my life for 18 years – something I always say with pride when I am asked. As a journalist, I am forever the favourer of the underdog. When I am not penning the latest human interest piece, crime or municipal bit, and occasionally a sports update, you can find me in the place I love most – at home with my beautiful family – cooking up a storm, soaking up the sun with a gin and tonic in hand or binge-watching a good series or documentary.

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