Logistics park will ‘improve quality of life’
Ahead of meeting against development, FIF speaks out.
FORTRESS Income Fund (FIF) believes their involvement in the Clairwood community and surrounds will bring much-needed development to the area, providing jobs and improved infrastructure.
Ahead of the meeting in protest of the development by local organisations this evening, 2 March, FIF has reiterated its plan to invest in the community and has outlined the development of the Clairwood Logistics Park (CLP).
FIF development manager, Nico Prinsloo was invited to attend the meeting organised by the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA), but declined. In an email, Prinsloo said the company remained committed to regularly providing information about the development’s progress through the local media.
The go-ahead for the development was given earlier this year by economic development, tourism and environmental affairs MEC, Michael Mabuyakhulu after he reviewed and dismissed all claims against the construction.
According to FIF, the CLP will encompass about 350,000 square metres of warehousing and paved yards; eight hectares of fully rehabilitated wetland, integrating native fauna and flora.
The importance of the logistics hub in Clairwood is highlighted by FIF because the South Durban Basin is bordered by major transport linkages and forms an integral part of the wider maritime and logistics sectors regarded as the backbone of the city’s economy. FIF added that the municipality earmarked the area as priorities for future development.
“Market research has indicated that the CLP will meet growing demand for A grade logistics and distribution facilities in the south of Durban and is of particular importance as it is in close proximity to both the existing port and the proposed Durban Dig Out Port,” according to FIF.
The CLP will cost R3,5-billion to build, R110-million of which will comprise upgrades to roads and surrounding facilities.“This will not only improve traffic flow into and out of the site but will ease overall traffic flow in what is often a congested area. It will significantly improve road safety, especially for learners attending schools close to the site,” said Prinsloo.
FIF claims about 18,900 jobs will be created in the area, along with business opportunities during the four-year construction phase and about 4,000 jobs once completed in 2020.
“The surrounding communities have a great deal to gain from this development. The increase in logistics operations in the south of Durban will boost the local economy, not only providing jobs for the unemployed in this area but also business development opportunities for entrepreneurs from previously disadvantaged communities. This will significantly improve the quality of life for many,” added Prinsloo.
For information go to https://www.fortressfund.co.za/.
