BUMPER crowds are expected on Ethekwini beaches and other popular hangout spots this weekend as the New Year festivities get underway.
In preparation for the peak crowds, law enforcement officers including; South African Police and Metro Police will be out is full force to ensure that all patrons celebrate and enjoy themselves in a safe environment. Lifeguards will be on high alert, as scores thousands are expected to visit the beaches to usher in the new year.
To avoid traffic congestion, road closures around the beachfront precinct will be operational from 31 December 2016 to 02 January 2017. Only motorists with beach permits will be allowed access beyond the boom gates.
Mayor, Zandile Gumede, said visitor turnout has been good this year and the City expectws a huge boost to its coffers as the number of visitors is expected to peak.
“So far we have seen a very positive turnout of visitors at all our facilities including township establishments. Our hotel occupancy rate has been at an average of 95%, but we are expecting this number to rise to 100% capacity during the New Year’s celebration period,” she said.
“The overall economic activity around this festive season is expected to generate an estimated R2.2 billion in direct spend, making a GDP contribution of R3.8bn into the economy of the City. Furthermore, the economic activity over this festive season is expected to sustain about 8 700 jobs,” said Gumede.
Durban Tourism has also noted an increase in the interest and number of visitors into local townships. Inanda Heritage Route has shown a significant growth in terms of international visitor arrivals. In the 2015/2016 year, the Inanda Heritage route recorded more than 12 280 international visitors and more than 9780 domestic visitors.
A number of events are lined up in the City and surrounding townships. These include:
On 31 December there will be FACT Durban Rocks at People’s Park, The Grand Finale at GrowthPoint Kings Park Stadium, 8th Annual Gospel All Stars at Centrum Site, 1st Annual KwaMakhutha New Year’s Eve Music Festival at Umkhumbi Sports Ground and New Year’s Eve Musical Pyro /Sundeck Bar at Suncoast Casino.
On 01 January, patrons will be entertained at the New Year’s Day Extravaganza at Umnini Dam and Woz’eDurban at Botanic Gardens,
