Unpacking Club Med Tinley’s impact on the North Coast
Typically, Air France flights can accommodate 300-350 passengers, which means a possible 700 foreign visitors arriving on the North Coast each week once the resort is operational.
Ballito, already considered one of the fastest-growing wealth markets in the country, is primed for major further growth following the announcement of leisure giant Club Med’s Tinley Manor development.
Club Med’s investment in the region is estimated to exceed R2-billion, with the resort expected to be completed by July 2026.
The Courier interviewed several experts to assess the potential impact from both a property and economic perspective.
Managing Director of Local Real Estate, Graham White, said quantifying the financial impact on the region would be challenging.
“The growth in jobs and wealth in the area attract more people interested in investing in the local property market,” he said.
He also noted that past developments have consistently kept property prices in Ballito above the national average.
With the addition of Club Med Tinley, the property market is poised to benefit significantly.
White also pointed out that the North Coast, already boasting a thriving rental market, would experience a surge in demand from the large workforce involved in Club Med’s construction.
The project will create 800 permanent and 1 500 indirect jobs, with 1 200 construction jobs to be created during the development period.
White highlighted Club Med’s track record of stimulating local economies and industries wherever they establish a presence.
It has a history of hiring 75% of their workforce locally.
Enterprise iLembe recently reported that visitor figures to the region had increased by 5% from last year’s 362 906 visitors.
About 23% of these came from abroad which, according to CEO Linda Mncube, will increase once Club Med is open for business.
He also mentioned the potential for new direct international air routes.
“Club Med’s conservative estimates suggest a demand for at least two Air France flights per week,” said Mncube.
Typically, Air France flights can accommodate 300-350 passengers, which means a possible 700 foreign visitors arriving on the North Coast each week once the resort is operational.
Mncube said Club Med Tinley represents one of the largest investments in the district, underscoring the North Coast’s appeal as an attractive destination for investment.
iLembe Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism CEO, Cobus Oelofse, noted the renewed interest in the North Coast, particularly from property buyers considering a secondary home that could also be utilised for short-term rentals.
He said while the region isn’t entirely immune to market fluctuations, feedback received by the Chamber indicates the region is performing better than most other areas given its lifestyle offerings and the kind of properties buyers are seeking.
“With prominent brands committing to our region, significant private investors are taking notice,” Oelofse concluded.
Construction of Club Med Tinley is expected to start early next year.
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