Multimillion rand projects on the cards

THERE are a handful of exciting developments in the pipeline for the South Coast.

Justin Mackrory, CEO of Ugu South Coast Tourism, welcomed the proposals, saying that should the list of projects come to fruition, it would certainly enhance the leisure, recreation and tourism value of the greater South Coast as a destination.

These big plans were heard recently at a Bendigo Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association (BRRA) meeting.

A large conference centre with various other amenities is planned for John Mason Park in Umtentweni.

Another big development is planned to take place at the old Sharks Den in Port Shepstone.

Meanwhile, John Irven, BRRA’s chairman, and train enthusiast Jan Hulcoop are also talking to stream train operators, to bring a locomotive to the coast.

A big nature reserve is being planned by the Umtentweni Conservancy along the Mzimkhulu River. There are also activities being planned along the river.

The most interesting project is the huge (multibillion) rand development on the cards for Hibberdene.

Hibiscus Coast Municipality’s Simon Soboyisa confirmed that there will be new development taking place at Hibberdene, however, he said the municipality would furnish more details once everything is finalised.

In 2009, there were reports of government throwing its weight behind a massive R5 billion harbour development, which had been on hold for the previous five years due to ‘administrative backlogs’. The project included the construction of a small craft harbour, a hotel and conference centre, and retail space, and adjoins a 600ha inland residential golf estate. This is expected to generate significant rates income for the municipality and create about 6 000 direct and indirect jobs.

Mr Mackrory said the tourism industry will no doubt really ‘pop the champagne’ when the actual tape cutting ceremonies take place- especially those that involve multimillion if not billion rands of investment and associated local employment. “Our destination is in dire need of a showpiece convention facility which will assist in our endeavours to lock into the ‘Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events’ markets,” he said.

Mr Mackrory said plans for Umtentweni would certainly benefit the area’s local tourism in that normally conference centre capacity is not normally met with equitable bed stock if a hotel is attached to it and as such, overflow demand will filter into the local hospitality segments. “The Mzimkhulu River’s potentials are immense and developments related to this stunning river are very welcome,” he said.

He pointed out that rail tourism does have innate measures of high risk, however, should the right form of planning and investment occur, such initiatives would provide an exciting component to our product mix at the coast and to our interior.

On the other hand, Mr Mackrory said the upgrade of Port Shepstone would convert the area into a more user friendly leisure facility.