PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

Strategic Location

• South of the Mhlathuze Estuary extending toward the uMlalazi River.
• Anchors: King Cetshwayo Monument (eSikhaleni Senkosi Beach) and Port Durnford’s pristine beaches and coastal forests.

Project Overview

• Concept-stage initiative to develop and promote rural tourism, recreation and heritage around the Monument and Port Durnford.
• Integrated product opportunity given the close proximity of the two sites.

Development Vision & Objectives

• Promote rural tourism and equitable coastal access (ICMA, 2008).
• Showcase the area’s history, heritage and culture linked to King Cetshwayo.
• Enhance recreational potential with repeat-visit facilities at Port Durnford.
• Create jobs and stimulate local enterprise.

Site Overview

• Coastal stretch from south of the Mhlathuze Estuary toward the uMlalazi mouth.
• Includes existing King Cetshwayo Monument and Port Durnford beach/forest assets.

Integrated Mixed-Use Components (Indicative)

• Beach and day-visitor amenities, trails, lookouts and picnic nodes.
• Lodges / chalets and small hospitality nodes.
• Heritage interpretation and cultural precinct for the Monument.
• Conservation-led access with biodiversity management measures.
• Internal services reticulation and public access upgrades.

Development Alignment

• City of uMhlathuze initiative aligned to Sustainable Development Goals (incl. SDG17: Partnerships).

Project Readiness

• Preliminary planning complete: Business Plan (Monument); Rural Development Framework, Beach Concept & Biodiversity Assessment (Port Durnford).
• Further detailed design required to confirm phasing, budgets and approvals.

Environmental & Regulatory

• EA/EIA not yet initiated; requirements to be confirmed during detailed design.
• To be guided by NEMA, Integrated Coastal Management Act and the Water Act.

Partnerships & Stakeholders

• Project promoted by the City of uMhlathuze.
• Partnerships anticipated with Traditional Authorities and community/business stakeholders.

Total Project Value

• To be determined after detailed design.

Funding Approach

• Municipal funding anticipated for bulk services to property boundaries.
• Developer funding for internal reticulation and vertical development.

Timeline

• To be confirmed (concept stage).

Investment Invitation

• Open to investors and development partners to refine concepts and participate in phased delivery and operations.

Contact

• Lerato Mndawe — Chief Tourism Officer
• Phone: 035-9075614
• Email: MndaweLF@umhlathuze.gov.za