Belgium expert shows the way for city makeover
The Worldwide Network of Port Cities sets benchmark for Richards Bay.
NOW that Richards Bay has joined the The Worldwide Network of Port Cities (AIVP), an international ports, cities and global supplies chain expert is onboard to show the City Municipality exactly what is necessary to turn the industrial hub into a tourist mecca.
Professor Jacques Charlier of Belgium arrived to give a presentation on the Port City Concept, Mixed Waterfront and International Best Practices requirements.
But to boost tourism, Charlier asserted it is crucial that the currently substandard Alkantstrand be transformed into an attractive beach precinct tripled in size.
‘Tourists would not leave Cape Town for Richards Bay with the way its beach and waterfront looks, for the time being that is!
‘It has to be of international standard.
‘This beach node needs to be tripled in size to attract foreigners and the waterfront must be much larger as well.’
He said another prominent letdown for visitors is the lack of public transport between the airport and their accommodation points.
‘People do not always want to drive so there certainly needs to be reliable bus and car services.’
City of uMhlathuze Chief Operating Officer, Nathi Mthethwa added another priority is to create urban-port integration.
‘We are making strides in our discussions with Transnet on port development and we feel confident that we will put this city on the international map by benchmarking our practices with the AIVP.
‘We have to change the space and diversify our attractions, integrating the port, waterfront and beachfront, to pull in more tourists,’ Mthethwa said.
