Shongweni development a major economic boost for eThekwini

“IN LINE with our radical socio-economic transformation programme, we are pleased to announce that for phase 1(a), R200 million will be allocated to local suppliers and 8 000 jobs will be created. Once all the phases have been completed, we are anticipating that 30 000 job opportunities will be created. The launch of this development is a clear indication that attracting foreign direct investment in the City remains a key priority,” said eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda during the launch, which was held in partnership between eThekwini Municipality and Fundamentum.

Launching this phase kickstarted a chain of development that will see this largely rural landscape transform into an urban core and new economic hub in a few years.

The first precinct of the development, as part of phase 1 is Westown, a 100-hectare retail and urban core hub, which will include the retail high street offering of Westown Square, a new hospital, residential apartments, and commercial business and logistics sub-precincts.

Westown is a R2.5 billion investment by the developer that will catalyse further investment in the area, stimulate job creation, and bring an array of much-needed services closer to communities. The total private sector investment for the implementation of all the phases will be approximately R30 billion over the next 15 years, depending on market conditions. Westown is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2024.

The City’s investment for the Westown component is R595 million towards municipal infrastructure, with the majority going towards the widening of the initial portion of Kassier Road. The City’s annual rates revenue is expected to be in the region of R350 million, appreciating with time.

Chief Executive Officer of Fundamentum Carlos Correia said: “Fundamentum is committed to changing the tide on developments of this nature by leading a mixed-use urban sustainability agenda at Westown – inclusive, environmentally sustainable, high-energy, safe and secure.”

He said the first tender for the upgrade of Kassier Road has been awarded to a stellar local development team, including contractors and engineering consultants.

As part of their commitment to local sustainability, participation and empowerment, the developer announced the establishment of the Westown Foundation, set up to facilitate and amplify local socio-economic opportunities that the development will create. The initial focus is the establishment of a new on-site training centre, providing skills development and training in construction and building-related trades.

These skills will be used on-site as the development of Westown unfolds and facilitate opportunities beyond the training centre, ensuring a legacy of skills transfer and local social upliftment and empowerment.

Correia said: “Sustainability will be at the core of this development. Our focus is on the rehabilitation, conservation and sustainable utilisation of the open space and ecological assets to ensure that the development is at one with the existing natural character of the area, integrating the outdoor pursuits such as horse riding, mountain biking, trail running, walking, birding.”