Durban Discussion.

Enjoy!

greg will like this...

Top award for Kwazulu-Natal

KZN's tourism marketing agency, Tourism Kwazulu-Natal, has won the prestige United Nations World Tourism Organisation's Ulysses Award for innovation in tourism governance and for its information and knowledge management systems

In other other good news, Durban's A1 Grand Prix has already been pegged as the best A1 race of the current season by Team Canada. Here's a short excerpt:

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Durban's stunning beach-side 3.28km temporary street circuit once again proved to be a highlight of the A1GP season, as it had been the year before when a sell-out crowd, and more, packed the grandstands and roof tops to check out the competing nations battling wheel-to-wheel just inches off the concrete barriers and wire fences lining the track.

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http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=255067&FS=

Will mean huge investment but comes with risk...

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Shock KZN nuclear plan

June 04 2007 at 11:11AM

By Heinz de Boer

Eskom is investigating the setting up of a nuclear power station on the KwaZulu-Natal coast in a move that has alarmed environmentalists who have warned of major safety and nuclear waste risks.

The energy supplier's startling revelation was made on Friday when senior provincial Eskom officials said the long-term nuclear option was being seriously considered to help rescue the province's diminishing energy base.

Environmental organisations have, however, slammed the initiative, saying it was "ridiculous" for the government to consider the nuclear power option after Koeberg's recent shutdown debacle.

'90 percent of the country's electricity is produced by coal'
"At least 90 percent of the country's electricity is produced by coal. We are researching initiatives on how else we can generate supply and are actively looking at nuclear reactors. If in the end it proves to be technically viable the reactor would probably be situated on the coast as we have no power stations along the coast," transmission east grid manager Justice Marabwa said.

Eskom's investigations into nuclear energy comes amid massive plans to curb transmission faults, bring a new hydro-electric station into commission before 2012 and manage KZN's potential for massive power outages.

Some of South Africa's major industrial power users are in KZN - a province that by Eskom's own admission has experienced a massive electricity load growth while the infrastructure and generating capacity has remained the same.

If given the go ahead, Eskom would, according to its published research, most likely invest in a coastal pebble bed modular reactor (PBMR) for KZN. Eskom would ideally want to build reactors close to the major energy sapping industrial areas, which include Richards Bay, Durban and Empangeni.

A typical pebble bed complex of 10 reactors would produce 1100 MW of electricity and occupy an area the size of three football fields. The buildings would stand about six storeys high while spent fuel would be stored in existing nuclear waste disposal sites at Vaalputs in the Northern Cape.

'South Africa would be wise to learn from mistakes made internationally'
Environmentalists are, however, unconvinced. National campaign co-ordinator for Earthlife SA Maya Aberman said PBMR technology was far from mature and South Africa would be wise to learn from mistakes made internationally. More effort should rather be focused on developing renewable energy resources and managing available energy, she said. She cited Germany, where the equivalent of 50 percent of South Africa's energy requirements is generated from wind.

"Our R16-billion PBMR project has dragged on for 10 years. There has been a lot of concern associated with PBMR internationally and we would firstly be worried about safety. One has the human factor to consider, and studies have found that in most of the nuclear incidents human error was to blame. One only has to look at Koeberg and negligence surrounding the 'loose bolt' that led to a partial shut down last year." Aberman said.

Provincial Department of Economic Development spokesperson Mashu Cele said that generally, government would welcome any boost in power production.


This article was originally published on page 1 of Daily News on June 04, 2007

http://www.int.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=124&art_id=vn20070604094420507C341281

Ah, so now we know where Alec Erwin meant when he said "somewhere in the southern portion of the grid". Most suspected the Cape.

This is a cross-post from the Point-Bluff thread. But the news is so exciting and this development could be such an iconic feature of Durban, I thought I had to cross-post here:

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I have a scoop, scoop, scoop!!!! Mike (and other passionate Durbanites), try not to pee in your pants like me when you read this. LOL!

Have any of you heard of ACCORD? "Who?", you ask? Well, the African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD) is the organisation that have been promised the Bluff Headland for a proposed peace and conflict resolution centre. The center has received endorsements from amongst others, Mandela, Mbeki, Blair, Clinton, and Obesanjo (although Clinton's name doesn't apear on the current list, I have seen it there before).

Anyway, I have been periodically checking their website for more than 3 years, since their proposed centre was first mooted. They had a high profile international design competition for the centre a few years ago (submissions were received from throughout Africa) and since then nothing new was heard of the proposed centre or the winning design. Guess what?? It's been released and apparently the centre is to be built before 2010. Thus, Mike's challenge to find a way to link the point to the Buff is now not a moot point; it is real.

You're probably wondering about the design? Well, in short, it is simple but stunning.

But don't jump the gun yet. All will be revealed soon... (yes, I am a tease)

First, more about the ACCORD and the proposed centre. Then we talk designs...

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The African Century will be founded on Africa's ability to find solutions to her own challenges. Her challenges of conflict, of development, her search for peace. African solutions to African challenges. Out of this belief has grown the vision of an Africa Peace Center. A neutral site, in Africa, where the continent's leaders can forge a passage away from conflict and violence, and towards peace.

This is a vision shared by ACCORD – a vision of the African continent, as it should be – free of violence and economic dependency. Where the resolution of conflict leads to significant economic achievements and a better life for all her people.

ACCORD is an African non-governmental conflict management organisation, recognised by the United Nations as a model for conflict prevention and transformation in Africa:

A model based on the pillars of research, training, and intervention.

A model that has been tested and proven throughout Africa over the past decade.

A model for Conflict Management that will be institutionalised through our vision of the Africa Peace Centre.

The Africa Peace Centre will be a state-of-the-art complex which will act as a base for high level conflict intervention and continuous research and training. It will also incorporate a resource and documentation centre, a meeting and training centre, a conference venue, 80 guest residences and a number of VIP houses. The complex will also house the ACCORD offices.

The Africa Peace Centre vision has already received the support of key political, business and civil society leaders throughout Africa and the world. ACCORD has forged a partnership with the City of Durban to make the Centre a reality.

http://www.accord.org.za/centre/vision.htm

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Now the part we've all been waiting for: the design. In my opinion, it's really novel and unique, utilising the underground military bunkers, as well as light. The key elements of the design are described as "Wells of light, shafts of darkness, and a living museum." Pictures of the bunkers look the coolest. Surreal, in my opinion. Also, renders of the development show massive spikes of light at the head of the Bluff that will form part of the feature. They seem to dwarf the Millennium Tower and should look *amazing* at night.

Also, the proposed gardens are not called the "Africa Freedom Park" but the Gardens of Reconciliation. Key components of this feature are: "Generous lawn and seating space; Amphitheatre; Water and stage, and Restaurants." The design looks amazing. There seems to be a long, elevated walkway.

Now, for the part you've been all been waiting for (yes, I'm a tease, I already told you so :banana:): the design and renders. Check out these links (I recommend you read descriptions first):

THE VISION OF THE CENTRE

Renders here include:

- those massive spikes of light at the end of the Bluff; and
- stunning and surreal never-before-seen publically-released actual pics of the military bunkers [I hope they leave as is].

http://www.accord.org.za/centre/vision.htm


THE DESIGN

Renders here include:

- The exterior and interior designs of the center (which look amazing and original, in my opinion)

http://www.accord.org.za/centre/design.htm


THE GARDENS OF RECONCILIATION

Renders here include:

- A repeat render of those spikey light features at the head of the Bluff
- Renders of a massive elevated bridge / pathway through the center, on the North-facing side of the Bluff (imagine the views of the city and harbour from there! I think that is the intended effect)
- An amphitheatre leading to a water feature of sorts
- overall floorplan of the centre, including depth of the centre

http://www.accord.org.za/centre/gardens.htm


DETAILS OF THE SITE ITSELF:

http://www.accord.org.za/centre/site.htm

OVERALL SCHEMATIC PLAN FOR NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN DURBAN

This page describes itself as: "The above plan identifies current and future Durban landmarks and illustrates how the Centre will integrate with other key attractions and functional parts of the Durban landscape."

http://www.accord.org.za/centre/durban.htm

Enjoy!

(Mike, you can exhale now) :)

So what do you guys think?? I think it will be an AMAZING feature for the city.

I like that they have restaurants and a conference centre here. What a setting and what views!!

Mike, perhaps you should start a new thread for this and copy/paste the renders (with acknowledgements and weblinks to the original site, of course)

excellent! I love the design they are working from, i dont mind if its the final design, but would like to see it evolve in some way over a few months or so with input from people in durban..so cool! big peace park and centre in durban ..and a small peace centre in CT

Mo, what are you doing up so late in SA?? Go to sleep. At least I'm in Brasilia, 5 hours behind you guys. It's still a decent hour here.

LOL, Mo's nocturnal.

With regard to your post Roman, what else can I say? Im flippin impressed. Such a perfect spot for such a development! Its on the Head of Durban & the views over looking Durban make it even more special! Also how appropriate is Mikes thread now? Mike did you know about this???

Love the design, keeps the "African Architecture" theme that government is trying to promote, similar to that of the constitutional court. plus those spots lighting up from that hill look f*cken FANTASTIC!

Thanks for posting Roman!

http://i7.tinypic.com/53z5o9z.jpg

It's beautiful! I especially like the beams of light which will be a major beacon to the city. A centre like this could create incredible exposure for the city. Imagine those views being broadcast every time a major initiative is take place at the centre. I just hope that the majority of the area is going to be permanently open to the public.

LOL, Mo's nocturnal.

With regard to your post Roman, what else can I say? Im flippin impressed. Such a perfect spot for such a development! Its on the Head of Durban & the views over looking Durban make it even more special! Also how appropriate is Mikes thread now? Mike did you know about this???

Love the design, keeps the "African Architecture" theme that government is trying to promote, similar to that of the constitutional court. plus those spots lighting up from that hill look f*cken FANTASTIC!

Thanks for posting Roman!

http://i7.tinypic.com/53z5o9z.jpg

Mo's trying to pass impossible exams.

LOL, Mo's nocturnal.

With regard to your post Roman, what else can I say? Im flippin impressed. Such a perfect spot for such a development! Its on the Head of Durban & the views over looking Durban make it even more special! Also how appropriate is Mikes thread now? Mike did you know about this???

Love the design, keeps the "African Architecture" theme that government is trying to promote, similar to that of the constitutional court. plus those spots lighting up from that hill look f*cken FANTASTIC!

Thanks for posting Roman!



Funny enough this is just a very BIG coincidence. I have been reading reports of a hotel on headland base, and know that there is a viewing level in the millenium tower and i thought it was about thime we discussed a way to make the area reachable.

This project now makes the entire "dream" of mine viable. and WOW what a project. the tourism and branding potential of it is amazing.

It now has its own thread!

Amazing coincidence.

I think the hotel talk is linked to the 80 bed facility that will be part of the centre. That's probably where conference delegates will be housed. I wouldn't mind staying there. Would be a gret get-away. It's probably the only place in the country that's so close to a major city (currently less than 150 m away from the Point) but totally inaccessible.

Guys can any of you help me. Am due to come to durbs for beach africa this year with some friends from the UK but I cannot find anywhere the dates on which the concerts are taking place or indeed what bands are going to be there. It is very frustrating. Can any of you help me? I cant book flights up nfrom CT or hotel or anything till I know what is going on and its very frustrating.

the official event website is www.durbanbeachfestival.co.za

thats the best bet

KZN digging into its own pocket

June 08 2007 at 01:51PM

By Heinz de Boer

It's been almost three months since massive sea swells devastated portions of the local coastline and national government has yet to make good on its promise to fork out hundreds of millions to help repair beaches.

Both the eThekwini and KwaDukuza (Dolphin Coast) Municipalities, who collectively sustained R1-billion of damage, on Thursday confirmed that they had been dipping into their own coffers to urgently repair vital coastal tourism nodes.

Durban city manager Dr Michael Sutcliffe confirmed that council had yet to receive a cent from national government, and was uncertain as to when council could expect its cash injection.

'All expenditure to date has been carried by KwaDukuza Municipality'
Durban's beaches sustained R49-million worth of damage, while the violent storm that lashed parts of the city caused R41-million of damage.

"I haven't a clue. There has been no indication as to when we will receive the money and are using our own resources, even though it does create audit problems. We would obviously like to have the money upfront, but had to prioritise to get the job done," Sutcliffe said.

Unusually high seas coupled with a low pressure system off the KZN coast caused the huge swells, which battered a 300km stretch of coastline in mid-March.

Durban's Golden Mile was extensively damaged, while tidal pools in the Ballito and Brighton beach areas were destroyed.

Umdloti and Umkomaas had large sections of road washed away. Ballito's coastal belt was almost totally obliterated. Not only were several pump stations destroyed or damaged, but the swells also washed away a 2km portion of promenade, including public toilets and boat launch sites.

Many coastal holiday homes and two restaurants were also damaged.

Promises of financial assistance were made not long after, when national minister of provincial and local government Sydney Mufamadi said central government would aid affected regions.

Mufamadi is responsible for national government's disaster management team.

The already cash-strapped Dolphin Coast, which lost about R1-billion in infrastructure, has already spent R1,8-million of its own money.

Ten of the 17 beaches in the KwaDukuza region are open and water quality has returned to normal after emergency repairs to damaged coastal pump stations.

The council's tourism officials said it had put action plans in place to rescue the upcoming July holiday season.

This is despite the main Ballito beach still being partially closed to the public and some beaches having only temporary public facilities like toilets.

In a public statement on Thursday, KwaDukuza's acting municipal manager Bill Byrnes said they had yet to see a cent of the R494-million in financial assistance they applied for. The figure includes R14-million for emergency work.

"All expenditure to date has been carried by KwaDukuza Municipality. Further provision for restoration work has been made on the 2007/08 budget. Funds will become available in July 2007," he said.

KZN spokesperson for the housing, local government and traditional affairs Lennox Mabaso said it was untrue that government was not acting to support municipalities.

Task teams first had to accurately collate what needed replacement before a report could be presented to parliament, he said.

"Although we want to move fast, we still have to comply with the law," Mabaso said.

This article was originally published on page 2 of Daily News on June 08, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=14&art_id=vn20070608101259123C736507

Perhaps we should submit a proposal to name the small road between Ushaka and the highrise strip starting from Spinnaker to the Mast "Skyscraper Street"?? LOL!

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Birthday Boulevard

June 08 2007 at 02:02PM

By Arthi Sanpath and Bongani Mthembu

A short road with just three households, off Essenwood Road in Durban, might soon take on a new identity.

"Boulevard of the Glorious 14th September 1944" - is the new suggestion, a "disproportionately long name for a short street", said Dr David Basckin who submitted the proposal.

It is unlikely that Basckin will get his way, he is still alive and cannot have a street named after him.

The gloriously elongated name also happens to be the nominator's date of birth.

Basckin said: "Yes, it is the date of my birth, and as I am the oldest resident on the street, why not name the road after me?"

David Basckin, former academic, film production company owner and columnist, roared with laughter after hearing that his proposal was listed among the 112 new names compiled by the municipality.

After composing himself, he said: "I am absolutely delighted that my suggestion is now up for discussion as I think it is a great name."

Basckin, who has lived in the road since 1975, said he sent in his proposal after the public was encouraged to send in their comments and suggestions last month.

"I was serious about sending in my suggestion, but obviously it was a light-hearted proposal. The name certainly has a sense of humour, but it has a meaning as opposed to the present street name," said Basckin.

The current name, Bonair Road, he claims has "neither a particular meaning nor history", therefore he decided he would put forward his suggestion.

In his motivation to the municipality, Basckin wrote that besides the date being his birthday, it also marked the launch of the battle for Strafbourg, a World War 2 battle against Nazism.

He added that the word "boulevard" has strong revolutionary roots, but he doesn't know how his neighbours would react as he hadn't asked them their opinion.

Unlike the previous list of street names which was dominated by the names of politicians, the new list which has 112 names has a mixture of religious, sports people, businessmen, politicians and even journalists.

The new proposed name for Durban's Moore Road is Mark Shuttleworth Road.

Even the name of the former Daily News reporter, Farook Khan has been proposed as one of the new street names. Durban's Exhibition Centre could soon be named after Inkatha Freedom Party leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi if the proposal is supported.

The public has until June 25 to submit their input for new street name proposals.


This article was originally published on page 3 of Daily News on June 08, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=6&art_id=vn20070608101347345C817141

New ideas for street names

June 08 2007 at 04:33AM

By Matthew Savides

The name of the world's first "Afronaut", Mark Shuttleworth, and the birth date of a Durban doctor have been put forward among the latest list of potential names for streets in Durban.

If a suggestion contained in a further list of 112 proposed street names is carried through, Durban's Bonair Road, in the Essenwood Road area, would become the "Boulevard of the Glorious 14th September 1944", the date of birth, apparently, of the oldest resident in the road, Dr David Basckin.

However lighthearted this name may be it, along with Shuttleworth's, is unlikely to be accepted as it contravenes the rules governing name changes. Both men are still alive and therefore cannot have a street named after them.

'No one is interested in this'

This is also the case for others on the list, including veteran Durban journalist Farook Khan and KwaZulu-Natal businessman Oscar Dlomo.

The new list of name change proposals was released this week and came about after the eThekwini Municipality reopened the window for input on the matter a month ago.

This was amid a mass outcry from the public and opposition parties that the renaming process was flawed, mainly based on accusations that proper procedure had not been followed and that affected people had not been adequately consulted.

In an attempt to rectify the process, the city council extended the timeframe for submissions, but opposition parties were adamant the process should have been started again from scratch. However, they were outvoted at a recent council meeting.

The new suggestions would run in conjunction with an existing list of 176 names. With the window for further proposals still open, the municipality's newly-formed ward committees would have at least 288 names to sift through before final decisions are made.

Ethekwini Municipal Manager Michael Sutcliffe said the fact that so many new suggestions had been received since the process was reopened in March showed that the process had become "thoroughly consultative" and that all affected people were getting involved.

The opportunity for further suggestions still remained, he said, and this would ensure that ongoing consultation took place.

However, the caucus leader of the DA in the municipality, John Steenhuisen, said that tweaking the policy would not help the situation because the correct process had not been followed from the start.

He said a list received by the party had revealed that 127 of the 176 names initially suggested had come from various ANC structures, revealing that the renaming issue was not a high priority for ordinary people.

"No one is interested in this. There are other things, like crime, that they would rather see the council putting their money and energy into," he said.

Most of the hotly contested and debated names on the original list, including the proposal to use bomber Andrew Zondo's name for a street in Amanzimtoti and the use of Castro's name, had been put forward by the ANC.

Sutcliffe said that all objections would be considered and acknowledged that not all of the suggested names would eventually be accepted.

"People take it that every proposed name will go though, but this is not the case. In reality, only about 40 or 50 names will be accepted from an administrative point of view alone."

All proposals received before the June 23 cut-off date would be submitted to ward committees for consideration and their decisions would be sent to Sutcliffe's office, where the merits of each suggestion would be balanced against the rules guiding the process.

After this, a final list would be sent to the Masakhane grant-in-aid committee whose decision would be sent to the city's executive committee and full council for the final decision.


This article was originally published on page 1 of The Mercury on June 08, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=6&art_id=vn20070608020021601C395466

Top Female Surfers to Compete in Durban

Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 6 June, 2007 : - - South Africa’s finest female surfers are preparing for the biggest clash of the year, when they take on a selection of top internationals during the five star ASP World Qualifying Series Mr Price Pro, which takes place from 4 – 7 July 2007.

The most prestigious women’s surfing event in South Africa, the Mr Price Pro holds a prize money purse of R 175 000, as well as precious ASP ratings points, which count towards a surfer’s overall WQS rating at the end of the year. Nearly 60 female surfers have entered the event, including eight of the world’s elite 17 World Championship Tour competitors.

2006 runner- up and former ASP World Junior champion, Jessi Miley Dyer (Australia), is the top seed for the event and will kick off her 2007 Mr Price Pro campaign in the round of 48. Joining her in this round are second seed and current ASP world number four Silvana Lima (Brazil), third seed and equal world number four Samantha Cornish (Australia), world number eight Amee Donohoe (Australia) and world number 12 Caroline Sarran (France).

Also featuring in the seeded rounds are, South Africa’s only WCT competitor Roseanne Hodge (East London), who surfed to an outstanding equal third overall in 2006, former world number two Melanie Redman – Carr (Australia) and equal world number four Rebecca Woods (Australia).

They can expect some tough competition from a hungry pack of WQS campaigners who will be eager to qualify for the prestigious ASP World Championship tour including, world number five on the WQS and former Mr Price Pro champion Serena Brooke (Australia), reigning world junior champion Nicola Atherton (Australia), WQS world number ten Nikita Robb (East London), Leilani Gryde (Australia) and Tammy Lee Smith (Balitto).

Local campaigners such as former WCT veteran Heather Clark (Port Shepstone), ASP Africa Women’s Champion Sarah Maritz (Warner Beach), Western Province Champion Stacey Guy (Cape Town), National Junior team member Taryyn Chudleigh (Cape Town) as well as up and coming junior stars Sarah Baum (Warner Beach) and Heidi Palmboom (Bluff), cannot be discounted.

The Mr Price Pro is the biggest women’s surfing event in South Africa, offering local campaigners the invaluable opportunity to meet and compete against their surfing heroines, as well a taste of the international surfing circuit. The Mr Price Pro women’s event gets under way on Wednesday 4 July and culminates with the 30 minute final on Saturday 7th, when the winner will be presented with her R28 000 first place cheque.

The Mr Price Pro is produced by Mr Price Sports Marketing on behalf of ASP Africa. Co sponsors of the event include Internet Solutions, Renault Cars and Holiday Inn Hotels.

http://www.globalsurfnews.com/news.asp?Id_news=28287

Very informative article. I didn't even know that KZN's coal reserves have been depleted so much or that there are gold deposits in KZN or may be uranium deposits just outside of Durbs, in Sheppies!

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KwaZulu-Natal has viable resources, even in coal
By: Margie Inggs
Published: 8 Jun 07 - 0:00

Contrary to popular belief, KwaZulu-Natal has viable resources of a range of minerals and enough coal to make it cost-effective to revive some of the collieries that were abandoned in the mid-1990s.

Mintek, which specialises in minerals and metallurgical technology and was commissioned by Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN) to undertake a study of the mineral resources in the province, said last week that nearly 20 farms had been identified as having high potential for coal-mining.

However, KwaZulu-Natal remains the poor relation of the coal-mining industry, with only 4% of the remain- ing reserves of coal in the country, while the Free State has 14%, Limpopo 34% and Mpumalanga 48%.

In terms of resources, Limpopo is way ahead with 64%, followed by Mpumalanga with 22%, the Free State with 12% and KwaZulu-Natal with only 2%.

Saleable coal production in South Africa is just under 250-million tons a year.

Since 1982, the amount of coal mined in KwaZulu-Natal has plummeted from close to 25-million tons a year to 2,5-million tons a year as the huge deposits, which made it one of the biggest coal producers in the world in the early 1900s, were mined out. This has had a catastrophic economic effect, as thousands of jobs were lost in the area, which has little other economic activity.

Iscor, now Mittal Steel, which has an operation based in Newcastle, used to buy large volumes of coal from the Kumba mine when it was fully operational. The mine is currently being rehabilitated.

Tami Didiza, head of communications at Mittal Steel, says there is currently a small operator from whom the steel producer buys some of its requirements, but that it cannot meet all its needs.

“We are, however, providing this operator with support to improve its production output,” Didiza says.

He adds that it will be in Mittal Steel’s best interest to get more coking coal from KwaZulu-Natal, as it is a critical component of its coal blend.

Neale Baartjes, head of regional minerals economics at Mintek’s Minerals Economics and Strategy Unit, says 60% of local coal sold is used for electricity generation and 25% for the petrochemicals industry.

He says the three most promising coalfields in KwaZulu-Natal are Klip River, Nongoma and Somkhele, in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

Nongoma and Somkhele are relatively untapped. At Somkhele, where it started commissioning an anthracite project two months ago, Petmin is planning an initial 40 000 t/m from the mine and 26 000 t/m to 27 000 t/m of saleable product.

The company plans to double production in the next six months to a year.

COO Bradley Doig says this is mainly for the export market and is being shipped through the dry bulk terminal at Richards Bay.

He predicts a 25-year life for the mine and says Petmin has spent a lot of time and effort on uplifting the local community.

Baartjes says opencast mining produces nearly a quarter of the coal in the province but that this is declining because the coal resources closer to the surface are running out. However, there are still significant underground resources, he says. Although mining conditions are difficult because of dolorite dykes and uneven terrain, he says the mines are close to Durban and Richards Bay, giving them a significant geo-graphical advantage if the export market is the target.

“As a result, the current production could increase from 2,5-million tons a year to ideally five-million tons a year and, hopefully, to ten-mil- lion tons a year,” he says.

In 2005, 13% of the operating coal mines in South Africa were based in KwaZulu-Natal, and, Baartjes says, the coal mines are beginning to generate a lot of excitement.

The constituent minerals for many building materials, such as ceramics, cement, bricks, aggregate, sand and dimension stone, have also been identified in the province.

Even gold occurrences have long been known south of Vryheid, and uranium north-east of Port Shepstone, but further exploration would have to be done to see if there are sufficient reserves to make mining viable.

TIKZN CEO Zamo Gwala says the findings “came as no surprise but helped put all TIKZN’s high expectations into context”.



“The findings will be used as a marketing tool and will make it much easier when we talk to foreign investors about opportunities in the province,” he says.

“Mining was never a priority for us before because we didn’t know we had the potential but now we are going to prioritise it.”

http://www.miningweekly.co.za/article.php?a_id=110197

The website is not even working and its only a month to go. Poor show from Durban Tourism. How are people meant to come to visit for the event if they have no way of finding out what is going on?

i totally agree. it was previously working however. I have since emailed Peter Bendheim from Durban Africa and wait for his response.

Thanks for doing that mate. Am very frustrated because am really looking forward to it and love visiting Durbs but there is no point if I cant find out when the darn thing is in order to book flights and hotels.

Guys you just HAVE TO visit the link below. It is a very refreshing book about life in Durbs

http://undressingdurban.blogspot.com/


Undressing Durban comprises articles from 54 contributors, most of whom are junior academics and postgraduate students in the Social Sciences (though there are also senior academics and undergraduate students among the contributors). The contributors were encouraged to write about topics with a Durban connection which 'excited' them, and the articles engage with readers as intelligent and critical laypeople (not as academic specialists) employing a variety of evocative styles.

I can't see this going ahead, especially with the competition from discount airlines and coaches, the extremely high costs involved, and the tight timeline they are facing if they want this done by 2010. This is despite them not having to build many (time-consuming and expensive) stations between JHB and Durbs...

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High-speed rail linking Durban to Johannesburg is slow to get started
June 11, 2007

By SLINDILE KHANYILE

Durban - Seven months after the proposed high-speed train project between Durban and Johannesburg was first announced, the KwaZulu-Natal government is yet to table a formal proposal for the approval by the national department of transport.

At the time of the announcement, the provincial leaders had indicated they would contact their national counterparts a month later.

The spokesperson for the transport department, Collen Msibi, said so far it had heard of this project only through the media.

"Our understanding is that it is still being discussed at provincial level and no proposal has been made to the national minister [Jeff Radebe]." He said the link must be aligned to the national rail plan.

Transport specialist Paul Copley said the project would cost a "monumental amount".

"You would have to replace the rail system and realign the earthworks," he said.

"I do not see the passenger demand for that [rail link] between Durban and Johannesburg, because you already have the bus coaches and the planes.

"In Europe it is working because there is such a passenger congestion there."

KwaZulu-Natal premier Sibusiso Ndebele told the SA Road Federation Conference last September that the train would reduce the 600km journey between the two cities to three hours.


He then said the province expected to know by the end of October whether it had the green light, which would then be followed by a formal proposal to Radebe's department.

Seven months on, it is not clear what is happening with the project, which is expected to cost about R50 billion.

Last week, Kwazi Mbanjwa, the director-general in the premier's office and the former transport director-general, claimed that the province had the support of Spoornet and the parastatal was helping to source funding for the project.

He said that construction could start as early as next year and that some overseas companies had shown interest in the project.

Bheki Cele, the transport MEC for KwaZulu-Natal, would say only that there were still discussions around the project.

Copley said this project could cost at least six times more than the Gautrain.

"The Gautrain [link], which is about 100km [long], is going to cost R23 billion," he said. "The trip between Johannesburg and Durban is 600km; that means a lot of money.

"I do not think the private sector would be interested in spending [that much] and it is a lot higher for government as well."

Calls made by Business Report to get comment from the SA Rail Commuter Corporation were not returned.

http://www.busrep.co.za/index.php?fSectionId=&fArticleId=3877178

personally i dont believe a high speed rail link between durban and joburg is needed. What is needed is improved rail facilities between the two cities for the handling of the masses of cargo that goes between the two regions. The n3 is a bloody nightmare and it would be far better to get many of the heavy trucks off the road and onto rail. but its a long project and needs much input

I believe that it should start sooner than later. No reason for it to be complete by 2010,but it needs to serve a long term purpose. On the other hand if the project is totally unfeasible then it should be rethought. It could also be one of those projects which pops up in the news for the next 5 years and only gets started in 15 years when they realize the need.

We do need a better alternative of transportation to joburg. I mean driving up is long & tiring, flying is also chaotic seeing that you have to be at the ariport 1 hour before your flight & by the time you get your bags at ORTIA & get to your destination its another 1 & half hours plus the 1 hour 10 min flight its about 3 hours 40min. Then taking the bus is pretty bad as well almost 9 hours of hell.

but will an amout of R50billion or more be justified on a fast rail service?

but will an amout of R50billion or more be justified on a fast rail service?

suppose not..imagine how many stadia we could build

I'd just like to see a high speed rail between Durban and Maritzburg (with stops in Pinetown and Hillcrest). Will make my life a lot easier :)

R50bn on fast passenger trains is a waste. Spend some fraction of that on:
-Completing the dual carriageway via De Beer's Pass, with 3 lanes at all times on the uphill carriageway.
-Constructing a 3rd (or even 4th) lane in each direction for the entire route between PMB and Durban.
-Upgrading the freight rail line to make it more attractive than it is currently. Although road hauling offers tremendous flexibility, so it's inevitable that a large portion of freight will not use rails. (Thus the need for the road improvements.)

R50bn on fast passenger trains is a waste. Spend some fraction of that on:
-Completing the dual carriageway via De Beer's Pass, with 3 lanes at all times on the uphill carriageway.
-Constructing a 3rd (or even 4th) lane in each direction for the entire route between PMB and Durban.
-Upgrading the freight rail line to make it more attractive than it is currently. Although road hauling offers tremendous flexibility, so it's inevitable that a large portion of freight will not use rails. (Thus the need for the road improvements.)

at least u didnt say build houses for the poor

i think the rail line needs to be upgraded, for many of the goods being transported from durban are not requiring massive flexibility. if rail was efficient, then it would really help. the line could be integrated into the new dry port at cato ridge and act as a shuttle between there and the durban port, alleviating alot of very heavy traffic that brings south durban to a constant standstill

The poor need houses, but they also need jobs. Relieving congestion on SA's most important freight road and rail corridor will create jobs, both as the result of construction and because of growth in KZN and Gauteng. The benefits of construction in this case are crystal clear, and almost certain. This is not like building a stadium, a brand new port in the Eastern Cape, or even mixed-use developments. This construction doesn't require a business plan, it doesn't require speculative usage forecasts. Build it, and the traffic will certainly come, because the traffic is already there.

Hmm 50 billion is abit excessive, plus I doubt it will remain at that tag.

Nice review article on Durban's Beverley Hills Hotel by an American journalist from the Daily News Journal. Should be enlightening for Americans who believe we live with wild animals walking around us (which is actually mentioned in the article!! LOL!) Here's an except. The rest of the article is dedicated to the recipes of the hotel's dishes.

--------------------------------

Bring home taste of luxury
South African adventure includes stop at 'Beverly Hills'
By BARB FORD
easywaygourmet@msn.com


We Americans typically think of Beverly Hills as a city on the west coast, just outside of Los Angeles, Calif. The name "Beverly Hills" evokes images of palm tree-lined swimming pools, large mansions and expensive shopping. In short, the words "Beverly Hills" suggest luxury and the high life.

Did you know there's another Beverly Hills? In fact, there's another Beverly Hills Hotel where movie producers might meet and celebrities might gather. And it definitely has the food and menus to entice the rich and famous. It is on the east coast, however.

The Beverly Hills Hotel on the east coast of South Africa in a beach area near Durban is just as luxurious and as chic as any hotel near Los Angeles.

This Beverly Hills Hotel has lighthouse and surf views from every room and luxury waiting around every corner. Imagine relaxing in a simple but elegant dining room to the sounds of the pounding surf with a view over the crystal-blue pool. White sheer draperies flutter in the breeze through the floor-length windows and doors. The clean, crisp scent of the Indian Ocean permeates the air. Now, take in the room's décor: clean white paneling is complemented by cool notes of turquoise-blue in the crystal chandelier and the simple room accents.

It is a setting for a wonderful casual meal, evoking the feeling you've somehow dropped into a private home on Miami Beach's Atlantic coast.

Suddenly, you remember where you are — in Africa. But there are no wild animals here, no surging markets with strange spices, no native drums. Here, the fresh scent of the sea and the sparkling simplicity of a comfortable lounge invite you to unwind and enjoy. But the best is yet to come — the menu and its wonderful choices.

http://dnj.midsouthnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070613/LIFESTYLE/706130329/1024

From Jamie Treckers blog I was quite suprised to see how much of what you say about us living with wild animals is a common view of americans...

I wouldn't exactly call it common. But it's not exactly rare, either.

I wouldn't exactly call it common. But it's not exactly rare, either.

thats correct.sorry.

Speaking of rare, the following is probably unprecedented in South Africa. In fact, it is undoubtedly ***outstanding***.

I am back in Durbs and catching up with news. Didn't realise that Durban had scooped four major prizes in one week (1st week of June):

1. Chelsea Flower Show: Silver Gilt Award [the show is the most prestigious flower show in the world; for the record, Durban was competing for the first time, a late entrant, and even beat Cape Town / Kirstenbosch, the seasoned and only SA entrant all these years]

2. Afriglobe award: Best Municipality in Africa

3. United Nations: Public Service Award (for outstanding public service delivery)

4. Proudly SA: Best Municipality in South Africa

This is on top of the other accolades the city has recently received:

5. International Convention Centre, Durban: Best convention centre in Africa 6 years in a row and top 10 worldwide (ranked 4th best in the world in 2006)

6. Vuna Award: Best Municipality in SA (awarded by government)

7. ZK Matthews Award from President Mbeki: Best Performing Municipality in South Africa

8. AA+ credit rating from international credit rating agencies (the highest in Africa)



I don't think any other SA municipality can claim to have won so many accolades in one year.

Congratulations Durban!

hehe well done for all the finding. good to see all the awards for durban

Got word that the designs of the new indoor sports arena and sports institue will be released shortly. those will be very intriguing to see!!!

That's great to hear. Lookign forward to seeing those designs.

Re: high speed rail link between Durbs and JHB, it's not happening. Here's an excerpt of an interview with Maria Ramos, the CEO of Transnet...

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MONEYWEB: Maria, just to close off with, what's happening with the high-speed rail link between Durban and Johannesburg? There has been a lot of speculation about it, the provincial government saying that Spoornet has agreed to it in theory, Spoornet saying they don't really know what's going on, they haven't heard of anything like that. What's happening?

MARIA RAMOS: Well nothing is happening, actually. We haven't heard anything about the high-speed rail link between Johannesburg and Durban at all. I heard about it in the newspaper. So no, we're not planning to build any high-speed rail link between Johannesburg and Durban at all.

http://www.moneyweb.co.za/mw/view/mw/en/page55?oid=140917&sn=Detail

Cover up on blackouts?

June 14 2007 at 11:39AM

By Heinz de Boer

The beleaguered Durban Electricity Department has again been the target of severe internal criticism as disgruntled employees break their silence on worsening conditions at the major electricity distributor.

As private hospitals in desperation prepare to install their own electricity supplies, groups of electricians and other technical staff have formed small committees to liaise with the media.

Already under pressure to deal with the dozens of faults reported each day, the unhappy staff say they are now also the targets of angry residents who blame them for the blackouts.

Those who defy their colleagues and work overtime at lower rates have, meanwhile, also complained of intimidation and threats to their lives.

Electricity staff have also lifted the lid on what goes on in the telephonic complaints department, saying workers manning the telephones regularly lie to consumers to "cover up" the real causes of the outages.

In many cases, Eskom is blamed for supplying low voltage, when council-owned equipment or staff shortages are responsible, electricity workers said.

The same department has also come under fire from politicians, who have threatened to phone senior electricity management staff to report blackouts.

DA councillor Rory Macpherson, who has actively campaigned for sweeping reforms at Durban Electricity, said he had fielded numerous complaints over the reporting call centre.

"If people cannot get through or get proper answers, they then turn to us as councillors. We should then be able to directly contact management at 3am in the morning so they can share the pain of the consumer," Macpherson said.

Durban Electricity has, however, denied the allegations, saying it was the "first they had heard" of controllers being untruthful to the public.

"If this is happening it's definitely not on. We continually strive to give as much factual information to our clients. It is sometimes difficult to predict when a fault will be repaired, but we always try and update people who phone in," said deputy head of electricity in customer service Sewraj Harilal. But staff say there is a definite cover-up to hide growing dissatisfaction with Durban Electricity and city management.

According to insiders, a major change in conditions of service, a breakdown of trust between unions and staff, together with old equipment, is to blame for the recent spate of blackouts.

The staff further accused senior management of not incentivising critically-skilled staff to stay in the department, and said management was putting electricians' lives in danger by making them repair already old equipment.

The industry norm is for cables that have been spliced more than three times to be replaced, but Durban staff claim some cables are often joined up to six or seven times, making it susceptible to faults.

"Many of the staff feel their allowances and money that should be spent on the Electricity Department is going towards building the new stadiums. There are no incentives for skilled people. The industry standard is for electricians to get about R16 000 a month. Durban pays a starting salary of R10 200," the insider said. "So people who've been with the department for 30 years are now leaving and others are refusing to work overtime."

Head of Durban Electricity Sandile Maphumulo was reluctant to comment on the allegations. He labelled the insiders "cowards", and called on them to rather report their grievances to management.

"I wouldn't want to give any benefit to comments made by faceless people," he said.


This article was originally published on page 2 of Daily News on June 14, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=124&art_id=vn20070614100134151C473182

Name lists gather dust
Bongani Mthembu
June 14 2007 at 11:43AM

Durban residents want a say in the proposed changes to street and building names, but with time running out for people to get involved, the lists of names are gathering dust in the offices of ward councillors.

Seven days ago, the two lists, which together make up 288 street names, were signed by all political parties and given to ward councillors to take to their ward committees for them to get feedback from residents.

This whole process has stalled, largely because councillors say they have been too busy to hold ward committee meetings. The cut-off date for input from residents is June 25.

The recent arrangement of making ward committees conduits of information was made after an outcry from residents, who complained that the renaming process lacked consultation.

The Daily News investigation has, however, discovered that fewer than 10 of the municipality's 100 ward committees have seen the lists.

Masakhane Committee chairperson Zandile Gumede yesterday reacted angrily when she heard that the ward committees had not started the process of involving all residents in their wards.

"This arrangement was made after people complained that they were not properly consulted. It is shocking to hear that the lists are still being kept by the councillors. It has been eight days since we gave them the lists," she said.

Gumede said that it was highly unlikely that all ward committees would be able to successfully involve residents, saying that they had less than 10 days to do so.

Councillors contacted on Wednesday admitted that they were still keeping lists, saying that council's busy schedule had prevented them from holding ward committee meetings.

She said that the municipality had made its clerks available to assist during the meetings but that to date no ward committees had used them. Some councillors said there was no need to "rush" because the media had widely publicised what the public needed to do.

"People are well aware of what they need to do," said ANC councillor Fozia Peer. Peer's ward committee plans to have its meeting on Wednesday next week which will be just six days before the cut-off date.

The lists that have been sent to the ward committees comprise the original list of 176 street and building names that were circulated by the council and caused the original furore and a new list of 112 fresh suggestions received after an extension period was given for objections and new suggestions.

The two lists have been packaged with all streets and roads in the Pinetown and Durban CBD area. Residents in all the wards are also expected to submit comments, suggestions, criticism, approvals and alternative names to the existing proposals.

People are also expected to propose any other streets, roads, freeways and buildings to be renamed as part of honouring our heritage in the transformation of the city.

The process of renaming became chaotic a few months ago when the original list of new names was unveiled. Political parties such as the DA and IFP lambasted the ANC for only putting forward names of its members.


This article was originally published on page 1 of Daily News on June 14, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=6&art_id=vn20070614095946415C883269

Durban lives up to its name 'Surf City'. More on the films and festival can be found at the link...

-----------------

Surf films at Durban Film Festival

Mon, 11 Jun 2007

Thousands of surfers enjoying the winter surf season are expected to converge on Durban just after the solstice to check out the hottest new surf movies at the Wavescapes Surf Film Festival, the only event of its kind in South Africa.

Wavescapes again teams up with the Durban International Film Festival to present a five-day feast of films that climax with a unique outdoor event at the Bay of Plenty lawns on 29 June. The outdoor event, part of the opening of the Durban Beach Festival, features surfing films on a giant screen, prize giveaways and music by Farryl Purkiss and Oreka TX from Spain.

Wavescapes 2007 will show wave riding in its myriad forms, from haunting visual eulogies about waves to gritty documentaries about suburban surf gangs; from surf exploration in exquisite lands to fascinating profiles of the world's best surf spots.

http://www.screenafrica.com/news/festivals/954949.htm

Cross-posting from the JHB board the bits relevant to Durbs. Exciting to see that a new rail link betw Durbs and Richards Bay is on the cards...

----------------------


Spoornet studies a plan to build freight rail ring around Johannesburg
June 14, 2007

By SAMANTHA ENSLIN-PAYNE

Durban - Transnet's plans to boost freight rail capacity include a feasibility study on a rail ring around greater Johannesburg to reduce delays.

...Using 2004 as a base, it is forecast that 50.1 million tons will be transported on the Durban to Gauteng route in 2009, rising to 69.4 million tons in 2019 and 84 million tons in 2025.

In 2004 volumes between Durban and Gauteng were 42.2 million tons, of which Spoornet railed 10.3 million tons and road handled 31.9 million tons.

Transnet's plans for rail between Johannesburg and Durban include a focus on cars and containers, which are forecast to grow substantially.

Transnet is ploughing R20 billion into pipelines, ports and rail for this corridor. Building an entirely new line between Johannesburg and Durban through the Tugela Valley was considered, but this was not feasible and would have been "hugely expensive".

Moses said Transnet's philosophy was that technology and operational efficiency were more effective than new infrastructure.

"Our network is good; we are just not using it properly," she said, but she acknowledged that "there will need to be expansion in some areas".

Spoornet's R34 billion capital expenditure over the next five years includes the acquisition of 215 locomotives, some of which will be deployed on the Durban to Gauteng route.

Investment is also being made in ore and coal lines and the line to the Port of Ngqura is being upgraded.

A new rail link between Richards Bay and Durban is on the cards. This would provide flexibility if, for example, vessels needed to be diverted.

Staff is also important. "It is no use in investing in new locomotives and terminals if we do not have the right people to run and manage these assets. We have identified the skills we need now and over the next five to 10 years. The question is: how do we match what we require?" Moses said.

One way is to retain people. Transnet's performance management scheme, which is focused on efficiency, safety and profitability, is linked to an attractive bonus system.

Transnet has shed non-core business to focus on the freight business. It has launched a R78 billion capital expenditure programme.

Moses said: "We have taken on a lot with simultaneous investment in ports, rail and pipelines. We have projects happening in every part of the country."

The next five years are critical as Transnet completes the integration interface between ports and rail.

http://www.busrep.co.za/index.php?fS...icleId=3882875

If any DA councillor is found to drag his/her feet on holding a ward meeting on the re-naming issue, then he ought to be hanged from a light pole. The article doesn't name specific councillors (aside from Fozia Peer), so we can't know for sure which councillors are 'too busy.' But I hope that the DA, after demanding (rightly) more public consultation on the issue, do not allow their councillors to avoid holding ward meetings. That would be an abdication of their duty to constituents, and very useful ammunition for Sutcliffe and the ANC.

Durbans back into its bumper sporting weekends!
This past weekend was the Comrades which saw over 11 000 people compete in the ultimate human endurance race, this weekend see's ABSA stadium in full capacity for the 2nd Tri Nations game agains the All Blacks
& next weekend see's our first currie cup home game! :banana:

i doubt this years currie cup will be that intriguing, there will be a good 30-40 top players out of it. maybe the griffons will win...lol

Hey Congrats Mr MOD

lol, it surprised me too.

lol, it surprised me too.

finally. thought thryve was going to delay it and make some spectacle before he left.

but what happened to 2 of us? and from the mod section i saw that the top decided no nigerian board, so i see much anger from those people flowing into here.

Theres a 'mod' section...... woow

but what happened to 2 of us? and from the mod section i saw that the top decided no nigerian board, so i see much anger from those people flowing into here.

good luck! i cant say i disagree with the decision from the top.

^^neither can i

Boys and girls...i have it on very good authority that the ICC is going into its next phase of expansions soon. Plans are to develop the open corner of the DEC site opposite the Hilton. This will provide a further 7600m2 of convention space in time for the 2010 indaba. On top of this development (ala Convention tower in CT) will be a 150-200 bed 3+star hotel.

This development is in addition to the 4000m2 of convention space that will be under the new ICC hotel on Walnut road. The hotel development recieved 5 tenders and the winning team will start building within 6 months. This hotel will be greater than 220 rooms in 4 or 5 star standard according to the minimum tender requirements set down by the city.

cool, cant wait to see the designs

anymore news on your ICC dev? it will be real cool to have these too developments rising, plus your massive one all at the same time! will put the arena development to shame!

This is excellent news. I'm still trying to picture where these two hotels will be in relation to the Hilton and each other.

I am currently in London. Went to a bookstore today and was paging through Lonely Planet's 'Travel Photography' book. The book is divided into different sections "cityscapes", 'landscapes', 'buildings', etc. They chose Singapore as their city to highlight buildings. You're never going to believe which city they chose to highlight as their 'cityscape' (skyline) candidate! Durban!! They could have chosen New York, Shanghai, Hong Kong. Instead, they chose Durban. I couldn't believe it. The photo was seemingly taken from Currie Rd. As some of you know, that's a great place to see the city. Durban's skyline looks impressively dense from there. If any of you were watching the Comrades Maratjon on Sunday you would have seensome fantastic shots of the city from the air. The downtown looked massive. At times I couldn't believe it was Durban.

On the topic of books, a book was released a few years titled "The 100 Most Beautiful Cities of the World". For those of you who don't know, Cape Town AND Durban made the list and were featured.

I think South Africans and Durbanites don't appreciate what a beautiful city Durban is as it gets lost in the shadow of CT. Durban is probably the hilliest city in SA and that's a good thing. If you think about it, the Berea and Bluff completely surround the city centre, which is unique in the country to my knowledge. These hills offer great views of the city (saw an amazing skyline view of Durban from Yellowwood Park the other day. I couldn't believe that part of the city had such gorgeous views of the city' skyline). The Lonely Planet book actually made mention of how Durban's hills are such an asset to the city re: skylines. Sadly, aside from one or two postcards of Valley of a Thousand Hills, not a single postcard of Durban features its urban hills. Our postcards need a major overhaul, if you ask me.

^^ I agree. The visuals we've seen in the last few months of Durban have been awesome - A1 GP, Super 14 final and Comrades. I must say, if there is one thing I miss living in Cape Town, it is trees. In Durban there are trees everywhere, did you know that you can actually smell them? I never realised that until I came back for a holiday 2 years ago. There are trees here, but most of them are near the mountain, the rest of the metro has very few trees over 3m high.

If the DA wins it might mean that the Moses Madhiba Stadium will revert back to its previous name of Senzangakhona Stadium, or something else entirely new.

----------------------

DA takes Durban street-renaming battle to court

Durban, South Africa

19 June 2007 03:59

The Democratic Alliance (DA) on Monday lodged papers in the Durban High Court opposing the eThekwini municipality's controversial plan to rename Durban's streets and some of its landmark buildings.

The DA is asking the court to prevent the municipality from proceeding with the second phase of the renaming process and is asking the court to have the first phase of the city's' renaming process reversed.

Phase one of the city's renaming process saw eight major roads in the city centre renamed as well as two buildings.

The municipality was set to proceed with phase two but the public outcry and a march of more than 10 000 people through the city centre on May 1 forced the municipality to extend deadlines for residents to raise objections to the proposed name changes.

However, at a press conference on Tuesday, the DA's eThekwini caucus leader, John Steenhuisen, said the DA was not opposed to the principle of street renaming.

"The DA supports such changes provided that they are locally driven by the addressees who will be most affected and that this is done through a proper, meaningful and thorough consultation process."

Both the DA and the Inkatha Freedom Party have accused the council, which has an African National Congress majority, of not keeping to the renaming process agreed by all parties.

"It is our contention that they [the eThekwini municipality] should have proceeded under the provisions of the National Geographical Names Council Act.

"In any event, it is also our contention that under the Constitution, they have no right to rename streets without the process going through the National Geographical Names Council, and Professor Elwyn Jenkins of that council has confirmed this," said Steenhuisen.

The matter is expected to be heard on Thursday. -- Sapa

http://www.mg.co.za/articlepage.aspx?area=/breaking_news/breaking_news__national/&articleid=311795

Hey, Jetjunky, the image in the Lonely Planet book is virtually identical to your icon pic!

And, yes, I agree about the trees and greenery in Durbs. I took a drive to Valley of a Thousand Hills on Monday. Despite it being winter, the valleys still looked green, although not the dark green of summer. In summer in CT and winter in JHB everything is dry and yellow. That's the aspect of both cities I don't like during those respective times of the year.

Great national coverage coming up for Durbs...

This will be fantastic in 3 years time when the WC coincides with the festival. I'm sure it will blow the socks off all the foreign visitors. The geat weather then will only make things better.

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SABC supports Durban Beach Fest

Tue, 19 Jun 2007

South African public broadcaster SABC has reaffirmed its sponsorship of the annual spectacular Durban Beach Festival, due to take place in Durban from 28 June to 8 July 2007.

Zakes Dube, SABC Regional General Manager: KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) says: “The SABC supports many initiatives in KZN such as the Royal Agricultural Show, the Comrades marathon, the Vodacom July Horse Race and the Durban Beach Festival, to name but a few.

The SABC’s vision of broadcasting for total citizen empowerment reverberates through all these events with which the SABC is partnering. Underpinning the SABC’s vision are values, one of which is conversations and partnerships. Supporting events such as the Durban Beach Festival, when minority sports are covered on our platforms, is a true demonstration of the SABC’s commitment of broadcasting for total citizen empowerment.

This year the SABC has committed itself not only to continue to provide compelling and distinct programmes that inform, educate and entertain but also to listen to our viewers and listeners to enable us to improve our performance.”

During the festival, beaches from New Pier to Snake Park in Durban will be buzzing with fashion events, a surfing competition to a full-blown festival, that includes amateur beach soccer, rugby, basketball, cricket, volleyball, trading stalls, live radio broadcasts, diverse music concerts and fun beach events designed to appeal to the whole family. This year sees the introduction of fresh activities and loads more fun.

The SABC will provide extensive radio and TV coverage of the event.

http://www.screenafrica.com/news/television/981768.htm

Good exposure for Durban in the American media....

Click on link for direct links to a video-clip of the report.

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African Tourism Industry Gears Up for 2010 Soccer World Cup
By Scott Bobb
Durban
19 June 2007

Bobb report (mp3) - Download 837k
Listen to Bobb report (mp3)

The head of soccer's world governing body, Sepp Blatter and senior FIFA officials are in South Africa to view construction on 10 stadiums that are to host the 2010 soccer World Cup. The event is still three years away, but preparations are reaching a feverish pitch, especially in South Africa's tourism industry. Correspondent Scott Bobb attended the annual tourism trade fair in Durban in May and reports on the preparations.

Zulu dancer at Durban trade fair

To the sound of Zulu drumming and dancing, more than 1,600 tourism companies from South Africa and neighboring countries gathered in the southeastern city, Durban, for their annual trade fair, called Indaba.

Organizers say Indaba is the third-largest tourism trade fair in the world. It showcases South Africa's $3 billion a year tourism industry, which has become the country's largest foreign-exchange earner.

Indaba trade fair

Tourist arrivals last year grew by 15 percent. And Durban, South Africa's second largest city with 3.5 million people and one of the busiest ports in Africa, has become and a major destination.

Tourists are drawn to Durban by its mild climate, broad beaches, water attractions and mix of African, Asian and European cultures. The 2010 soccer World Cup is expected to swell their numbers.

The city is building a $200 million stadium, which will seat 70,000 people, to host major world cup matches in 2010.

City Manager Michael Sutcliff promises much more than soccer.

"The things around the World Cup is what will be celebrated more here, the dance, the drums," he said. "And that sort of experience is going to make it a World Cup that people will walk away and say, 'Wow, it was not just a soccer event. That was an experience. It was a life-long experience.'"

The South African government is investing billions of dollars to build or enlarge 10 stadiums around the country and develop bus and railway networks. New hotels and guest houses are being built to accommodate the estimated 400,000 soccer fans expected for the Cup.

At the , operators like Rudi Rippe of Jumbo Tours acknowledge the World Cup presents opportunities, but also poses challenges.

"It [World Cup] will take away our normal tourism flow," said Rippe. "And except for the people that are directly involved in it, which are only a very limited number of companies, the rest of us will have a tougher time because we cannot get our normal coaches, our normal accommodations, etc."

Joe Motsogi of JMT Tours says operators must think beyond the 32 days of soccer matches or face ruin.

He launched his company 10 years ago and was among the first black South Africans to enter what has been an industry dominated by whites. Motsogi says black tourism operators face many obstacles.

"There is lack of capital. But we need to be very careful. We cannot pump in capital when there is no skill," said Motsogi. "That capital is going to dissipate. Develop skills first, and then provide capital."

Operators of game lodges, luxury railroad tours, and camping, hiking and golfing expeditions are also seeking to attract some of the two billion tourism dollars to be spent during the Cup.

And for the first time the world soccer governing body, FIFA, is allowing game lodges to register on its accommodations list.

There are reports that alternate countries are being considered for the World Cup because of South Africa's high crime rate and lack of hotels and transportation.

Sutcliff acknowledges these are problems, but says they are being addressed.

"We certainly will be ready. It will be the greatest World Cup ever. I have got no doubt in my mind," he said.

South African tour operators agree. They promise that the 2010 World Cup will be held in South Africa and it will be a uniquely African experience.

http://www.voanews.com/english/2007-06-19-voa24.cfm

i wonder if that lonely planet book is available in south africa...must go look at adams and exclusives.

Jerome once again you are the finder of many an interesting titbit that most people would never know. good on ya mate!

I must agree that Durban is an amazing city from the aspect of interactions with the skyline. All over the berea, it takes on one persona. Then from the harbour/wilsons whalf another. Another when at the beach, and the another when looking back from umhlanga. And when you drive over tollgate bridge and it just hits you in the face, i challenge anyone to say that doesnt impressive from there.

The view from the N3 at Tollgate is amazing. As you say, it hits you in the face, and the immediacy is just as impressive as the actual view. I love the skyline view from just above Mitchell Park.

On a related note...Just for kicks, I check out the new SA guidebooks about once a year to see if there's a new edition, and to see how the writers treat Durban. I'll try to get back to the store soon and post a report with details, but 2 weeks ago I noticed in a guidebook that the authors consider Durban the only SA city other than CPT unique enough to warrant a visit. That's a big change from previous guidebooks I've seen in the US and UK.

^^ ya i noticed that comment too. But its bad on their behalf when they still include the old sea world, village green and waterworld on their attractions lists, when the places have been gone for over 5 years! And list clubs that closed in 2004, restaurants i have never heard of, and then leave off florida road. And my fav is when they call Umhlanga a "north coast village" outside Durban.

The guidebooks have always sidelined Joburg and Durban. Cape Town is the only place to go to in South Africa. Up until recently, Lonely Planet said flat out that one should avoid Joburg unless you absolutely have to. I tore a strip off them and made them change it.

They admitted they hadn't sent a corrospondent to Joburg in a while, and now that they have, they at least say that Joburg isn't all that bad actually.

But as a result, I always used to pimp Eyewitness and TimeOut guides at my bookstore (they are excellent), and strongly discouraged the purchasing of Lonely Planet. ;)

some body wanted the events for Durban beach Africa

Durban Beach Festival
Date : 29 June - 8 July
Event : Durban Beach Festival

Venue : Durban BeachFront -New Pier to Snake Park
Contact: 031 304 1007
Website: www.durbanbeachfestival.co.za

Durban Beach Festival - Its Happening!
The Durban beachfront will be alive with action when the
spectacular Durban Beach Festival lights up the Golden Mile with
the following events:

Wavescapes Surf Film Festival - 1 night (29th June 2007)
Mediterranean Beach Spa
Skateboarding
Beach Games
Kiddies Kingdom
Al Fresco Dinning Areas
Hunters Chill Zone
Volleyball (9 days)
Bodyboarding
Mr Price Pro Surfing (2-8 July)

^^ I've got the latest Lonely Planet on Africa and it lists Joburg as a must see attraction in SA so they've taken note of you :)

Frommers describes Durban as "a bizarre and wonderful city, a truly African city, undergoing its own little renaissance. And with plans for a new international airport at La Mercy taking shape, Durban looks set to give lily-white Cape Town a real run for its money."

^^ that was an interesting comment! It is true that coming to Cape Town is not really coming to Africa, and i would say that is probably the cities biggest flaw (even if it is not denting tourism arrivals). The energy of Africa that you feel in Durban and Joburg is somehow completely lacking there. It has its own energy, different and good, but not african.

Oh Mike...the beach festival website is now working. Will post all Durban events over the next month. there are a bucket load to keep you busy while in town.

We had canadians interns at my company, and they visited cape town and durban while here. We are based in pretoria. They found pretoria to be very pretty, but a bit dull. So they were in jozi every weekend and they looooved it! Then they travelled to Cape Town. Coming back, they said it actually felt themeparky... Beautiful, perfect, but just a tad too european. But they loved it still. They absolutely adored Durban - because of the cultural mix. The warm water. The people. They loved durbs. I certainly think durban and jozi have been left out of the mix for far too long. And as a tourist destination, durbs will certainly gain more and more prominence.

http://i15.tinypic.com/4uca4jq.jpg

There's a nice video clip on the "What's Happening" link. http://www.durbanbeachfestival.co.za/

I host overseas visitors on a regular basis and they all rave about Durban and how it's SA's best kept secret. Many have said that CT (esp the V&A Waterfront) is a tourist trap and is trying too hard to be European and Un-African.

Last month's SAA Inflight Magazine, Sawubona, which highlighted Durban, described Durban as a beautiful woman who wears her face without make-up and who doesn't realise how beautiful she really is.

I thought this was a great way to describe the city.

We had canadians interns at my company, and they visited cape town and durban while here. We are based in pretoria. They found pretoria to be very pretty, but a bit dull. So they were in jozi every weekend and they looooved it! Then they travelled to Cape Town. Coming back, they said it actually felt themeparky... Beautiful, perfect, but just a tad too european. But they loved it still. They absolutely adored Durban - because of the cultural mix. The warm water. The people. They loved durbs. I certainly think durban and jozi have been left out of the mix for far too long. And as a tourist destination, durbs will certainly gain more and more prominence.

I agree that both Durban and Joburg have been "forgotten" by SA tourism who seem to only want to market Cape Town and Kruger, while taking money from all the regions. Recently, the KZN branch of Fedhasa has stated that they will no longer send funds to SA Tourism, for they feel that the province is being ignored by the organisation and they believe the KZN tourism office with the ZULU KINGDOM brand is doing far more work for the region. As such they will now send their funding to the provincial body and leave out the national body. And you know what, i think that is the right approach to take

...described Durban as a beautiful woman who wears her face without make-up and who doesn't realise how beautiful she really is.

I thought this was a great way to describe the city.

That is a refreshing viewpoint

Guys i have a prelim render of one of the new point towers. I dont have a name for it yet. It is 30F and all glass. it has not been launched yet. While this is an initial render, i still feel it looks very very impressive. and a BIG jump forward for any commercial highrise in the city. Should i wait for a name and finer details in the morning or post tonight?

^^ Such a tease...tonight dammit :)

please :master:

haha! i thought people would want as much info to go on when they see it. but ok. i'll post it at around 9 with all the info i have.

haha! i thought people would want as much info to go on when they see it. but ok. i'll post it at around 9 with all the info i have.

WHO CARES
I HAVE GOT A MULTI-BILLION RAND PIC!!!!!

what of? come on give us a bit more info. please :)

what of? come on give us a bit more info. please :)

Hint - YOU ALREADY KNOW ABOUT THIS PROJECT...
:)

ITS THE BIGGEST SINGLE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT YET IN THE 'ZULU KINGDOM'

dont tell me you have pics of the King Shaka airport design?????? Cos if you do and you not sharing i will be so bleak.

You are our most amazing source of info!

dont tell me you have pics of the King Shaka airport design?????? Cos if you do and you not sharing i will be so bleak.

You are our most amazing source of info!

thanks for the complement...

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$JACKPOT$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k59/DURBAN2010/DurbanDubeTradePort.png

I know we are all excited, but guys please can you post all comments on the KSIA design in the Dube Tradeport and King Shaka International Airport Thread (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=322184&page=18)

Thank You!! I am sure we are going to have ALOT to say!

Retail growth in Upper Highway sparks rental crisis
www.rodneyhayter.com

(Rentals) Durban (June 20) - The unprecedented growth of Hillcrest’s commercial sector is leading to a residential rental crisis in the Upper Highway with demand far outstripping supply.

At present work is being finalised on two shopping centres in the centre of town, introducing many new stores and restaurants to the area leaving its sales staff, cashiers, waiters and middle management seeking accommodation.

With the average purchase price of a three bedroom house hovering between R1,3 and R1,4 million in the Upper Highway, most staff and middle management of these new stores face and affordability dilemma due to the area’s high entry level price. “Unless they rent, they will be forced to travel long distances, which given the high fuel prices, will be quite costly,” explains John Roberts, franchisor for Just Letting KwaZulu Natal.

However, opting to rent is no simple solution to this problem. “The average rental price for a three bedroom house in the Upper Highway area is around R5 000, a figure which includes granny flats. So if you do not consider granny flats with an average rental of R2 000, those rental prices increase substantially.

For even some on management level to spend R5 000 to R6 000 on housing alone is virtually impossible, given standard retail salary rates. But the harsh reality for tenants wanting to rent a house or stay in a security complex within the Upper Highway, they must be willing to pay more than R6 000.”

To further complicate matters, Roberts says that the demand for house rentals in the R4 500 to R6 500 bracket far outweighs the supply. This bracket is where the greatest demand lies, yet there are very few properties coming onto the market in this price range.

“This might be a good opportunity for investors to start tapping into the burgeoning rental market, as some might be missing out on an opportunity to capitalise on the current market climate by adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach,” cautions Roberts.

With the latest FNB Residential Property Barometer indicating a rental demand increase of 300 per cent in the Durban area alone, Roberts says it is clear that the rental market is poised to offer substantial returns on investment.


Submitted: 20 Jun 2007

p2bsa, YOU ARE THE MAN!

Does anyone have a copy of Sundays Tribune? I think on the 3rd or 5th page they had an article on the people mover system for Durban & had the dates of the start of operation, I think its the 13th of July.

sorry dysan... I just had to considering the magnitude of this development

this pic is from today daily news....

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k59/DURBAN2010/KSIA-DurbanWestElevation.png

Very interesting. Looks like a fair sized retail component infront of the terminal landside. Pretty unusual but a nice idea. I also like the garden area. Seems to indicate that natural elements will play a big part in the whole feel of the airport.
Thanks p2bsa!

looks great guys!! cant wait for the new airport.

p2bsa, YOU ARE THE MAN!

Does anyone have a copy of Sundays Tribune? I think on the 3rd or 5th page they had an article on the people mover system for Durban & had the dates of the start of operation, I think its the 13th of July.

went to a presentation on the people mover last week, and they stated fully operational mid july, with a few buses running the route during the beach festival as a final trial.

Mike I hope the Airport doesn't make you not to post the design of that 30 floor new building. Just show us how it looks like and then you will cretae a new thread when you get the name.

Post the DAMN DESIGN DAMN IT!!!! :guns1:

^^ i posted the design in the projects thread yesterday bud under "new point tower"

Thanks my man, forgive me I haven't visited Projects thread. Just only accessing SSC now since tuesday. It feels like I'm on a drug and I just missed a day without it, I just can't help not to come to this site, even when I'm sick. Thanx Mike.

Map of the central city and northern region up to Umhlanga. The map shows new development areas and hopefully will help out of towners to place where the main development areas we discuss are located.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c128/dysan1/DurbanDevmap.jpg

This is a beauty of a home! anyone that could get to the auction will be in for a great visit!

Grand Old Dame of Hillcrest to be auctioned


(Auction) Durban (June 21) - Exactly 80-years-old, this Meyrick Hudson-Bennett original farm house modelled on a Sir Herbert Baker design is to be auctioned on site by First Trust Auctioneers at 3.30 pm on Sunday June 24. Billed as the “Grand old Dame of Hillcrest, the residence at 43 Old Main Road, Gillitts, offers approximately 1 000 sqm of Oregon pine floor space with yellowwood staircase, Burmese Teak windows and doors, pressed ceilings and bevelled glass.

The property consists of two formal lounges, bay windowed study, double-volume music room, banquet sized dining room and fully equipped chef’s kitchen. The fully air-conditioned upstairs area includes a master bedroom, four further bedrooms and a total of three bathrooms.

An additional west wing off the main residence consists of two bedrooms, kitchen and bathroom while tennis court and pavilion and swimming pool offer comprehensive leisure activities. Four garages and staff accommodation.

The estate will be open for viewing from 9 am on the day of the auction.


Submitted: 21 Jun 2007

Good news for increasing KZN foreign sales

eLan Group opens London office

(Foreign buyers) The eLan Group has upgraded its European marketing presence with the official opening of a London office at Canary Wharf. The office is intended to compliment its existing sales teams in Majorca and Dubai.

Announcing the opening in Durban this week, CEO Mark Taylor justified the presence as eLan’s response to demand for information on the South African property market, which had “surged from superficial to deepening interest in the last two years.”

This had been fuelled by the country’s stability, still relatively low cost of property in world terms and the country’s presence at international property shows, primed to some extent by the élan Group proactive attitutude to overseas exposure. Global awareness from the country’s hosting of the World Soccer Cup in 2010 was also becoming a key factor.

eLan Group is currently marketing two major developments, Blythedale Coastal Resort and Simbithi Eco Estate, both on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Combined completed value of the two developments is more than R6 billion.

Taylor says overseas buyers still comprise approximately 5% of eLan’s sales, but he is optimistic of this maturing to between 10-15% within the next two years underpinned by the finalisation of the contract for the King Shaka airport on the KZN north coast. Given the magnitude of the project he sees it paving the way for a massive boost to investment in the area. “We eagerly await the breaking of ground as we know the positive impact this is going to have on all of us who have invested in property on the North Coast as well as all those who plan to invest in the future”.

The eLan Group has recruited a number of larger overseas agencies to actively market Blythedale and Simbithi with large client networks in Britain, Ireland, Spain and Dubai. Their influence recently culminated in a R135m investment at Blythedale Coastal Resort from a single British based Investment Company who purchased a large portion of land units within the estate with the intention of sub developing post 2010.

In its effort of profiling South Africa abroad, the eLan Group recently initiated an International Media Trip where six of the top international property journalists from the UK were invited to SA. The journalists represented The Daily Mail, Telegraph, Times, Mail on Sunday and Place in the Sun Magazine. The initiative featured support from seven of South Africa’s top developers namely: Moreland Development, Zimbali, Global Property Investments, Eurocape, Val De Vie, Rabie Property Group and Stonebridge.

Taylor say s the trip showcased South Africa to the international media with the intention of branding the country as an overseas property buying destination and to give direct exposure to major regional developments.



Submitted: 23 Jun 2007

How many Durbanite forumers do we have on here now? i can list the following:

Dysan1
Romansa
Durbsboi
SAboy
p2bsa
GregPz
Umhlanga
JetJunky

Sorry for those i have forgotten!!

Also, any readers of this forum that are still not members, why is that? If you come here to read all the great info on Durban and South Africa, PLEASE sign up and add your views to the discussions!

Wow! Major skyscraper story making breaking news.....

-----------------------------------

Durban blaze brought under control

June 26 2007 at 12:26AM

After a four-hour battle, Durban firemen brought under control a blaze that ripped through a 32-story building in the city centre.

Three helicopters - from the police, national Ports Authority and the army - airlifted at least 70 people from the roof of the Seaboard Hotel, which caught fire at about 7pm.

It stands on the corner of West Street and Brickhill Road.

Five firemen were injured, four by smoke inhalation and one with minor burns.

By midnight fire crews were going through the four affected floors
Two firemen who were trapped in the building earlier in the night were among the five, who have all been taken to hospital.

eThekwini fire chief Mark Te Water said the greatest difficulty was getting a reliable water supply. Crews from six fire stations had been pulled in to fight the blaze.

By midnight fire crews were going through the four affected floors - eighth to 12th - damping them down.

Authorities were searching for alternative accommodation for those who lived in the top 18 floors. The lower floors are offices.

A 70-year-old man was found sleeping on the 14th floor by the police's search and rescue unit. He was overcome by smoke inhalation, and police carried him up 18 floors to the roof.

No one has been allowed back in the building
Unconfirmed reports were that six civilians had received medical treatment. Precise numbers could not be obtained, as helicopters flew those lifted off the roof to two separate treatment points.

One treatment point was Addington Hospital. The other was the eThekwini metro police station at North beach.

No one has been allowed back in the building, and electricity was cut off.

The fire started on the eighth floor. Police Inspector Michael Reed said the cause was not immediately known. Foul play was not suspected at this stage.

The 11th floor was occupied by detectives of the Point Police Station. Reed said all the dockets had been burnt, but had all been scanned into computers, so no information was lost. Duplicate dockets would be printed in the morning.

Captain Adele Sonekus said: "All my certificates are up there".

Among those rescued was a seven-month-old baby, Loubeine Oosthuizen.

The nearby Palm View Hotel responded to the crisis by making cups of tea for the survivors and medical crews.

A citizen served cold drinks to police and firemen.

For several hours West Street and Brickhill roads were cordoned off.

A hydraulic platform - a crane with a hose - fought the fire from outside the building, its spray only reaching to the eighth, ninth and 10th floors. A turntable ladder was also spraying the building to the same height.

Several fire crews fought the fire inside the building.

A Red Cross helicopter circled the building, without lifting anyone off.

Police were posted to keep curious crowds of onlookers away so that firemen could work.

The premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Sbu Ndebele, eThekwini municipal manager Mike Sutcliffe and the safety and security MEC, Bheki Cele, all attended the scene.

Earlier, loudspeakers issued messages in English, Zulu and Portuguese, telling occupants to get to the roof. - Sapa

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=nw20070626001945130C953867

This story is making headline news around the world. Some people were still trapped after midnight.

Yeh, this was a real shocker, some of our guys were called to the scene this morning to conduct an investigation to try & find the cause of the blaze. Again terrific work done by the police & esp the fire fighters for their heroic efforts, some of them sustained injuries themselves. :applause:

Agreed. True heroes in my book. I'm sure some of them will get bravery medals. All the big brass were there to see their heroics live.

it must have been scary to see. i only read about it this morning. Does anyone have any pictures? well done on the rescue services, from what i read there werent any casualties.

Durban Towers over 20F

Pearl Sky - 43F
The Mast - 40F
Findle Tower - 36F
San Raphael - 35F (Canned)
Grindrod Tower - 32F
Pearl Dawn - 32F
"New Point Tower" - 30F
Spinnaker - 29F
Moyeni - 28F
Pearl Breeze - 27F
Marriott Umhlanga - 24F
"Pine Street" Tower - 20F
"ICC Hotel 1" - 20F
Bay Terrace Views - 20F


Just missing out

"ICC Hotel 2" - 18F
Devonshire Tower - 17F

There's a dramatic picture of the fire in today's front page of the Daily News. Here's what it was like. Those pilots and the firemen deserve a lot of praise. I feel terrible for the 5 firemen who sustained serious injuries.

-------------------------

'Saved by God's angels'

June 26 2007 at 02:06PM

By Miranda Andrew, Bongani Mthembu and Heiz de Boer

Ria Quna, trapped in the hotel as an inferno raged below, panicked as she grabbed her baby and ran up to the rooftop.

She couldn't breathe. She feared the worst. Then she collapsed.

But out of the darkness, a piercing searchlight zoomed ahead of the whir of a helicopter's blades, scanning the rooftop for those who needed help.

Quna's saviours had arrived.

Thirty-one storeys below on Monday night, hordes of spectators cheered.

Today the mom believes she and her 7-month-old baby Candy owe their lives to "God's angels".

The 20-year-old mother was one of 92 people plucked by helicopters from the roof top of the burning Seaboard Hotel in Durban on Monday night.

The hotel, one of Durban's landmark beachfront buildings, is on the corner of West Street and Mahatma Gandhi (Point) Road.

"I am just so thankful that so many people helped us in my hour of need. I thank God that he sent his angels to save us," said Quna from her bed at Addington hospital.

Recalling the events leading up to her breath-taking rescue, she said: "It was so frightening. I was in my flat on the 16th floor. I was taking care of my baby and it was just after 7pm. All of a sudden we heard screaming. I thought there was a fight.

"I looked through the window and saw a lot of smoke. I then ran and opened my door and saw everyone running down the corridor," she said.

That's when Quna knew something was terribly wrong.

She went back into the bedroom, grabbed her baby and ran.

"I was so scared for my baby and me. We ran up the stairs because someone said the fire was below us. When we got to the rooftop, I could not breathe. I'm not sure what happened after that. I think I collapsed," she said.

"Someone took my baby from my hands and helped to take care of her. The paramedics put me into a helicopter and we were flown to the bottom."

She said at this point she was more concerned about her baby.

"I could hear her crying and paramedics were assisting her. They also placed an oxygen mask around my face.

"They said they were treating me for smoke inhalation."

At the heart of last night's epic rescue effort were the dedicated pilots and crew of the SAPS Airwing, the SA Air Force's 15 Squadron and a National Port Authority pilot helicopter, who braved some of the most difficult and dangerous flying conditions to rescue the trapped people.

Although they are trained to fly at night, 40km/h winds, thick smoke and the danger of low-level urban flying made the rescue mission both technically and emotionally challenging.

Veteran pilot Rene Coulon of the SAPS Airwing was the first to venture to the top of the building.

Unable to land on the roof for fear of its collapsing, Coulon was forced to hover centimetres above a brick wall as his colleague, "Wessie" van der Westhuizen, pulled terrified people into the rear cabin.

He was the first to admit it was one of the most difficult flying experiences of his life.

But he was not alone. The massive Oryx and a BK117 helicopter of the legendary 15 Squadron - famed for their Mozambique flood rescues - struggled to maintain position in the gusting wind and thick smoke.

"One of the most difficult things was the confined space," Coulon said. "You couldn't land on the roof, so we had to inch in and put down near the brick wall. Then suddenly a gust of wind would pick the heli up and you would have to fight it down again."

Asked what they would say if someone labelled them heroes, a modest Coulon said it was "just nice to help" and praised the firefighters who braved the flames.

Another hotel resident, Roma Gary, said he had been about to take a bath when he heard people screaming.

"We live on the 17th floor and my room-mate and I managed to take a lift and get out before the fire got worse," he said.

Some were treated at the scene while many others, such as Quna and Candy, were taken to hospitals and treated for smoke inhalation.

None of the hotel residents was seriously injured.

However, Owen Singh from eThekwini's Fire Department said five firefighters had been seriously burnt while trying to save others.


This article was originally published on page 1 of The Star on June 26, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=vn20070626134615950C600584

Today on Cape Talk, a letter that appeared in the Cape Times made waves as it was discussed on two of the days shows. It is written by a group of six Captonians who went to Durbs for the weekend's rugby...

Cape is inhospitable
June 26, 2007 Edition 1


As a group of six rugby tourists visiting Durban this past weekend, in unison we salute the Durbanites for their fantastic hospitality and organisation. We compared the organisational preparedness of Cape Town as a city to that of Durban when it came to hosting a big sporting event such as the Tri-Nations matches held over the past two weeks. Cape Town rates a poor third.

In Durban, you get the feeling that all elements of tourism are working together to achieve one goal - that your stay in Durban must be a memorable one at all costs.

While we were there, they were also busy preparing for the Durban Festival, which starts next week. There is such a buzz of excitement and anticipation in the air that we had wished we could be there next week, too.

They had a Boktown set up at the Suncoast Casino. And even though South Africa had lost the Test, the place was jumping with happy people.

We just wonder whether Cape Town will ever become a true South African city. The First Citizen, of course, leads by example. She is fighting with the tourism authority, threatening to withdraw funding and other support. The traffic authorities are at their aggressive best as only they could be when any big event takes place.

Cape Town is such a beautiful place. What makes one so sad is the fact that the town is so divided.

Divided along political, racial, socio-economic and religious lines, it does not seem as though things will improve here in the next 10 years. Cape Town needs to look at itself in the national mirror and see how ugly it has become.

Cost is of course another element. We found parking near the Absa Stadium in a huge parking lot and it was free. Cape Town is consumed with making money at all costs.

The attitude of the average Capetonian, through to the street vendor, towards fellow South African tourists is nothing but shameful.

As six Capetonian visitors returning from a fantastic weekend in Durban, we apologise to all the tourists who were down here in Cape Town the weekend before. We are truly embarrassed to call ourselves Capetonians. We will say nothing of the Cape's attitude toward local soccer tourists and fans.

Stephen Smith, Judy Orso, Tony Brevis, Trudy Kumalo, Martin Kumalo and Gail Smith

Cape Town

As you can imagine there was a BIG response to this. Interestingly tho, most callers agreed that Durban is friendlier and more accomodating to tourists in general - regardless of how much cash they are going to spend.

^^ thats a very interesting piece, more because it is surprising to see it writen by Capetonians.

any pics of the fire or its aftermath?

cant find any pictures on the net Giles, but will try & scan them from yesterdays mercury

East Coast Radio to the rescue

http://blog.ecr.co.za/newswatch/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/the-seaboard-on-fire_small.jpg

http://blog.ecr.co.za/newswatch/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/rescuers.JPG

http://blog.ecr.co.za/newswatch/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/treatment-after-being-rescued.JPG

http://blog.ecr.co.za/newswatch/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/seaboard.jpg

http://blog.ecr.co.za/newswatch/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/father-and-son.JPG

shoa, the story that impressed me, was of teh firefighter that carried a 70 yo man from the 11th floor all the way to the 32F up the stairs to safety. The poor old man was in his room and thought the noise was people striking again.

good pics db

Today on Cape Talk, a letter that appeared in the Cape Times made waves as it was discussed on two of the days shows. It is written by a group of six Captonians who went to Durbs for the weekend's rugby...



As you can imagine there was a BIG response to this. Interestingly tho, most callers agreed that Durban is friendlier and more accomodating to tourists in general - regardless of how much cash they are going to spend.

Wow! That's a fantastic report on Durbs and a scandalous account of CT.

However, it is largely reflective of how most South Africans view the two cities. Durbs is still SA's top domestic tourist destination (Durbs and KZN own 65% of the domestic tourist market) and quickly gaining in the international tourism market (last year KZN overtook Western Cape in terms of foreign tourists).

Also, their account mirrors that of thousands of soccer fans who *repeatedly* travel to Durbs from all parts of the country when a major soccer derby is played in the city (Pule being one of them). Sports officials also say Durbs is the best place to host major events. That's why matches are continuously sent here. The organisation and hospitality is generally always tops.

I have always said that overseas friends and colleagues that I have hosted think that CT is visually stunning but prefer Durbs to CT, largely because it's not a large tourist trap and because people are more humble and friendly. Many have said that

any day tiome shots of the aftermath? is the area still cordend off?

Wow! That's a fantastic report on Durbs and a scandalous account of CT.

However, it is largely reflective of how most South Africans view the two cities. Durbs is still SA's top domestic tourist destination (Durbs and KZN own 65% of the domestic tourist market) and quickly gaining in the international tourism market (last year KZN overtook Western Cape in terms of foreign tourists).

Also, their account mirrors that of thousands of soccer fans who *repeatedly* travel to Durbs from all parts of the country when a major soccer derby is played in the city (Pule being one of them). Sports officials also say Durbs is the best place to host major events. That's why matches are continuously sent here. The organisation and hospitality is generally always tops.

I have always said that overseas friends and colleagues that I have hosted think that CT is visually stunning but prefer Durbs to CT, largely because it's not a large tourist trap and because people are more humble and friendly. Many have said that

But that is the impression you get when in CT. The people there dont really ever seem to make an effort for tourists unless you are a huge spending German or Film star. Its that cape town snobbery. And the fact that they are slowly killing their business by over charging.

guys how is this weather?? the temp gauge in my car has not past 13 today and is sitting on 10 now. Joburg gas snow. Kokstad and most of the midlands are cut off cos snow has blocked the roads off! and only 2 days ago it was pushing 30C in Durban!! This will lead to an interesting discussion in the weather thread! Fan parks would be great outdoors today LOL

Yes, this change of weather is amazing. I can't remember when it was thjis cold in Durbs. I actually am wearing clothes I normally only wear in cold countries. Oh well, at least I'm getting to wear winter wear in Durbs for once. I usually use summer clothes all year round here.

I hope the weather changes by the weekend. Paddling in these kinds of conditions will be wicked!

--------------------

Surf Ski WC to cross harbour mouth

Wed, 27 Jun 2007

Organisers of the worlds biggest surf ski event, the ARB Surf Ski World Cup in Durban this weekend, have brokered a deal with the Durban harbour authorities to allow the paddlers to cross the harbour mouth, should the conditions dictate a northerly course from Amanzimtoti to the finish at Durban’s Point.

“I am thrilled to confirm that the National Port Authorities, and deputy harbour master Captain Plaatjies in particular, have been extremely helpful in securing permission for the surf ski paddlers to cross the harbour mouth, under close supervision, if that course is to be used,” said race boss Butch Murray.

The race officials are watching the weather very carefully, as the predicted cold front will bring with it significant surf and swell conditions that will affect the decision over the final course for the ARB World Cup.

If the weather and swell is from the north, then a course from Westbrook beach outside Tongaat, to the race base at the Point will be used. But if southerly weather and swell prevail, then the race will start at the Toti beachfront, and finish at the Point, necessitating the crossing of the harbour mouth.

“Normally ski paddlers are not allowed to cross the harbour mouth, or enter any of the shipping lanes,” said Murray.

“In this instance, the port captain and the NPA management understood the importance of this event, and agreed to allow the ski paddlers to cross the harbour mouth under strict conditions.

“It will take about 45 seconds for a paddler to cross the harbour mouth,” Murray added. He confirmed that a number of safety craft will be in attendance, to ensure that the entire harbour mouth is not being used by any ships, and giving each paddler clearance to cross the harbour mouth.

Should any ship traffic be planned for the mouth, then the ski paddlers will be checked in, and held in a control zone until the ship has left the harbour, where after they will be released at the same time intervals to continue the final short paddle to the finish at Durban’s Point development.

All the race information can be found at www.surfskiworldcup.com

http://sport.iafrica.com/news/149324.htm

Mr Price Pro fever hits Durban

Wed, 27 Jun 2007

Mr Price Pro fever hits Durban this week as surfers from around the globe pour into ‘Surf City’, in anticipation of the start to the six star ASP World Qualifying Series event, which gets underway at New Pier on Friday 29 June 2007.

Over three hundred professional surfers from the world’s leading surfing nations have entered to compete, in the hope of capturing the prestigious Mr Price Pro title as well as R1 075-million in prize money and valuable ASP ratings points.

Current world number 11 on the Foster’s ASP Men’s World Tour, Tom Whittaker (Australia) is the top seed for the event and one of 25 elite top 45 ASP World Tour campaigners, competing in Durban.

Joining Whittaker in the round of 96 is second seed Corey Lopez (Florida), a former world number three, with a total of 11 years experience on the ASP World Tour.

Lopez is expected to be a top contender at the Mr Price Pro, having grown up surfing waves similar to those on offer at New Pier.

Third seed is none other than former ASP World Champion CJ Hobgood (Florida). Although currently rated 31st on the Fosters ASP World Tour, Hobgood is always one to perform, no matter what the conditions.

2006 Rookie of the Year Fredrick Pattachia (Hawaii) is the fourth seed and a loyal Mr Price Pro campaigner, having won the inaugural Mr Price Pro Junior in 2001.

A master in the hollow waves of Hawaii, Pattachia is renowned as a prolific tube rider who is expected to slip into many a New Pier barrel next week.

South Africa’s Greg Emslie (East London) is the fifth seed and local favourite to take out the title.

Currently rated 30th in the world, Emslie has been one of South Africa’s few, top performers at this event in the past, becoming the first Saffa to reach the final in 2004, where he placed third.

Although the event’s top seeds are expected to steal much of the limelight in the coming week, local campaigners Travis Logie (Durban), Ricky Basnett (Bluff), Royden Bryson (East London) and Jordy Smith (Umbilo) are poised to make an impact, having grown up surfing and competing along Durban’s Golden Mile.

All eyes will be on Basnett as the defending Mr Price Pro champion, who snatched an unbelievable victory at this event in 2006, becoming the first South African to do so since the 70’s.

Currently in his first year on the WCT, Basnett is rated 25th in the world and has made no secret of his desire to take out another victory here this year.

Logie is currently in his third year on the WCT where he is rated 12th in the world, the highest out of the South African contingent on tour.

This flashy goofy footer is always a standout at New Pier, his powerful backhand attack predicted to set him apart from the rest.

Bryson, who is currently rated 36th in the world, will be looking to make an impact at this event in order to climb the WQS ratings to ensure he is back on the WCT in 2008.

Last but not least, reigning ASP World Junior Champion Jordy Smith (Durban), who is currently sitting at first on the ASP WQS, will be hunting down a victory at his home break.

The super talented junior surfer captured the world’s attention with mind blowing performances across the globe over the last year and will be a treat to watch.

The Six Star WQS Mr Price Pro forms part of the Durban Beach Festival which takes place the length of Durban’s Golden Mile.

For more information as well as images, results and live scoring log on to www.mrpricepro.com

http://sport.iafrica.com/news/149283.htm

i wanna be soaking it up on the beach bars over the weekend, so this cold spell better pass by and bring back normal durbs winter weather!!

Another good dev by Aengus sells out super fast. and they have a few more Durban ones on the way.

New Durban high-rise apartment block sells out in days

26 Jun 2007 - Aengus Property Holdings -

Intro

All 133 units including three glass-fronted penthouses in Durban’s newly converted high-rise residential apartment block, the Berea Lofts, have sold within days of their release

Richard Rubin, MD of Aengus Lifestyle Properties said that while the sell-out had exceeded their expectations, it underscored investors’ insatiable demand for affordable, quality investment properties. The properties were priced between R250 000 and R300 000.

“Although from a macro- economic perspective it may be too early to tell, the market response to the Berea Lofts may be a reflection of the views held by some leading property strategists, who believe that that the continuing upward interest rate movement could shift property investment to the lower end of the market as prospective buyers scale down their expectations and buy cheaper properties,” Rubin added.

“What the response does demonstrate however, is that there continues to be huge demand from the lower to middle segment of the market for affordable accommodation.”

News of the impending release of the Berea Lofts spread like wildfire and the project sold out before Aengus had started its official marketing campaign. “The last coat of paint had barely dried before we were inundated with offers,” Rubin said. However, he urged would-be investors not to be discouraged if they lost out. “We keep a waiting list of all interested parties, so people should make contact as soon as possible.”

He also said Aengus Lifestyle Properties would announce the start date for a new residential project in the near future.

“As evidenced by the response to the Berea Lofts and to our other projects in Johannesburg’s CBD, buyers are attracted by our turnkey model which provides them with a risk-mitigating property investment,” said Gavin Meskin, Managing Director of Aengus Property Management. While Aengus converts existing commercial or distressed buildings into contemporary apartments, its partner company, Aengus Property Management finds tenants and manages the properties at 100% tenancy with zero arrears, maintains the property to exacting standards and retains a controlling interest in the bodies corporate. “Investors really do have peace-of-mind that their investment is in expert hands,” Meskin concluded.

i didnt realise the commercial office pool in westville had 131 000m2 of completed space. A visit to the sapoa site reveals that there is an additional 33 500m2 of space either under construction or approved. Westville is the 3rd largest office node in Durban after The CBD and Umhlanga/La Lucia

Prime new office development in Westville by RMB Properties

25 Jun 2007 - RMB Properties -

Intro

Westville in KwaZulu Natal, one of the hottest nodes for commercial property development in the country, is to get an additional 7,600 m² of A-grade office space once a new development being undertaken by RMB Properties is completed

Site clearing commenced in April and the three-building complex is expected to be completed in July next year at a cost of around R87 million.

Already some 2 500 m² of the available space has been let with the Momentum Group taking 1 000 m² and engineering firm, WSP Consultants, acquiring a further 1 500 m². Rentals are at R100/ m² gross.

The site being developed is the old Burgess Nursery site at the intersection of Langford and Lancaster Roads, close to the Blair Athol Drive off ramp from the M13 and only a few kilometres from the Pavillion Shopping Centre and the Westville Mall. It is one of the last vacant tracts of land available for commercial development in central Westville.

At the moment the development is known as 1 on Langford, but the three-building configuration, each with its own entrance and two-storey lift from the parking area, allows naming rights for larger tenants or maximum flexibility for multi-tenant usage.

RMB Properties’ Development Manager, John Eagar, says interest from prospective tenants has been high. According to the latest Sapoa statistics there is a pool of approximately 131 000m² of A and B-grade office space in the Westville area, and of the 54 784m² of A Grade space, vacancies are currently running at a low 1.3%.

Another factor which Eagar says makes the development extremely desirable as decentralised office space is the generous parking ratio. Normally, parking ratios in Westville are around 3-4 bays/100 m² but in this particularly development parking ratios are 5 bays/100 m².

1 on Langford is being developed by RMB Properties on behalf of Momentum. RMBP’s Marketing Director, Hugh Basel, says much of the company’s development activity is for external parties and RMBP would like to undertake other developments in the Durban area should other opportunities present themselves.

The architects for the project are Boogertman Urban Edge and Partners and Sivest have been appointed as the principal contractors. Letting enquiries can be directed to Debby Kippen, Regional Manager for RMBP, telephone 031 365 9600

I heard the July could be postponed due to a very wet track

that new westville office building has been on the cards for about 10 years at least. we alwys went to Burgess nursery and its great on the freeway, nice that westville CBD (ha ha ha) has more development as it was looking out to the pav office areas and the old quarry site.

I heard the July could be postponed due to a very wet track

there is more than a week til the july bud!

I know, thats what they were saying :dunno:

dont shoot da messenger!!!

haha ok. it will dry in 2 days if sun shine, there was not even that much rain yesterday. enough to make things green again...which is needed! Think i;ll be able to chill at the beach cafes this wknd after all

has anyone found out more on the club med up the north coast?

2nd Annual Container & Freight Logistics Conference – 27, 28, 29 August 2007

Is Bayhead congestion a regular frustration for you?
Is your freight turnaround time slower than normal?
Are you overspending on budget?
Are bottlenecks in the supply chain one of the reasons that you are experiencing delays?
The ripple effect will detrimentally impact SA’s potential of growing as a regional hub.
Can you afford for this to happen?

Containerised freight is fast becoming a global trend and it is up to the industry at large, including government to ensure that South Africa and Africa as a continent can compete on a global scale and emerge as the leaders in the containerised freight industry.

Strategies and Solutions To Be Discussed At This Event:


Outlining components that hamper capacity building at ports

Discussing protocol for how containers should be handled at ports

Optimising material handling and what security measure will be taken to enhance safety and security of containers

Seeking innovation in maximising space usage at ports and terminals

Contracting of containers and the effect it has on cargo being moved

Assessing future participation from the public and private sector in regulating the industry

Synchronising intermodal connectivity in South Africa

Do Not Miss This Event... From gaining an understanding of RFID tagging to alleviating capacity and infrastructure challenges, this event is not to be missed! It is the perfect knowledge sharing opportunity to ensure that you are equipped to overcome the challenges facing the freight industry. Do not delay… Register today for Container Logistics 2007!

For more information or to RESERVE YOUR PLACE NOW…
Contact GRANT STROUD on +2711669-5088 or email:
grant.stroud@iqpc.co.za
Visit us: http://www.iqpc.com/za/container/p&s

IQPC provides business executives around the world with tailored practical conferences, large scale events, topical seminars and in-house training programs, keeping them up-to-date with industry trends, technological developments and the regulatory landscape. IQPC’s large scale conferences are market leading “must attend” events for their respective industries.

IQPC produces more than 1,500 events annually around the world, and continues to grow. Founded in 1973, IQPC now has offices in major cities across six continents including: Berlin, Dubai, Johannesburg, London, Madrid, New York, Sao Paulo, Singapore, Stockholm, Sydney, and Toronto. IQPC leverages a global research base of best practices to produce an unrivalled portfolio of conferences and training events.

Today on Cape Talk, a letter that appeared in the Cape Times made waves as it was discussed on two of the days shows. It is written by a group of six Captonians who went to Durbs for the weekend's rugby...



As you can imagine there was a BIG response to this. Interestingly tho, most callers agreed that Durban is friendlier and more accomodating to tourists in general - regardless of how much cash they are going to spend.

"DURBAN PUTS CAPE TOWN TO SHAME"

That was the headline of the same letter that appeared in The Mercury (the Cape Times sisterpaper) today!
But it is 'locked on that damn Mercury website'
http://www.themercury.co.za/index.php?fSectionId=2867&fSearch=1&fQuery=Durban+puts+Cape+Town+to+shame

I hadn't realised (but should have) that it would make the cape town papers...

beyond that I also heard somewhere that Cape Town Routes Unlimited has a measlie budget compared to the award-winning Tourism KwaZulu-Natal....

The Tourism KZN budget is also increasing, as FEDHASA KZN are now going to plough the money they used to give to the national tourism body to Tourism KZN, for they feel the national body doesnt feature the province enough and only focuses on CT and Kruger...which is 100% true, thats all it bloody does. so good on them. kzn tourism does a far better job anyway

interesting enough your 'signature' boast the TKZN's "Zulu Kingdom" brand
dysan...


World Tourism announces Ulysses Awards



Madrid.- Africa, Europe and Latin America were the protagonists of this year’s UNWTO.Ulysses Prize and Awards, granted during a ceremony in Madrid this week in recognition of Innovation and Application of Knowledge in Tourism Governance.

UNWTO grants the Ulysses Prize to a distinguished scholar for an outstanding contribution to knowledge in tourism, while the Awards are bestowed on projects undertaken by public institutions in tourism (governmental, public-private partnerships), tourism enterprises and non-profit institutions (NGOs, Civil Society), which merit distinction for their innovative contributions to tourism policy, governance, and areas of tourism such as the environmental, new technologies, among others.

Including local communities

This is the case of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN) from South Africa (First Prize, Award for Innovation in Tourism Governance), which has placed its focus on the impacts of tourism and on tourism as a tool for development, involving the local community in the tourism development.
Europe offers an example of regional co-operation through the European Network of Village Tourism (First Prize, Award for Innovation in Non-Governmental Organizations). Conceived and coordinated by the Portuguese Évora Tourism Region it includes its own Alentejo region and Trentino (Italy), Lapland (Finland), Arad (Romania) and Lomza (Poland). The project involves hundreds of local players in the sustainable tourism development of their destinations as a catalyst for integration.

Advancing technology

The Ulysses Awards also took into account the contribution of the Internet to improve tourism governance. CADASTUR (Special Jury Prize, Award for Innovation in Tourism Governance) registers tourism service providers and serves as a technological platform for Brazil’s Ministry of Tourism. This system allows for a better management of tourism policies through on-line registration, classification, and inspection of the country’s providers of tourist services.

Spain offers an equally valuable example, but from the tourist’s perspective. The Directory of Reservation Canters (First Prize, Award for Innovation in Tourism Enterprises) is a web-based tool which already receives close to 20 million visits per year, offering the chance to search for and reserve accommodation, with one single site offering a wide range of options.

COMPLETE LIST OF UNWTO.ULYSSES PRIZE AND AWARDS 2007

UNWTO Ulysses Prize for Academic Excellence in the Creation and Dissemination of Knowledge in Tourism

Prof. Dr. Bernard Morucci, Sorbonne University (France)

UNWTO Ulysses Award for Innovation in Tourism Governance

First Prize

Programm Information and Knowledge Management; Tourism KwaZulu Natal (South Africa)

Special Jury Prize

Program CADASTUR, Ministry of Tourism of Brazil

UNWTO Ulysses Award for Innovation in Tourism Enterprises

First Prize

Program Promoter of e-commerce in the Tourist Industry, SEGITUR (Spain)

UNWTO Ulysses Award for Innovation in Non-Governmental Organizations

First Prize

Program European Network of Village Tourism, Coordinated by Evora Tourism Region (Portugal, Italy, Finland, Romania and Poland)

Special Jury Prize

Program The Wine Culture, Dinastía Vivanco Foundation (Spain).

source: http://www.dominicantoday.com/app/article.aspx?id=24144

^^ yeah i am a proud supporter........

Also...i visited the south american threads earlier and i was shicked to see someone had posted pics of the recent snowy cold weather in SA, BUT had also posted some pics of frozen railings and the frozen sea and said this was how the weather had affected Durban!! Little did i know that the sea off durban had frozen! LOL

Yes, just for the *official* record, KZN was awarded 1st prize by the World Trade Organisation at its annual Ulysses Awards (held this year in Spain) for "Innovation in Tourism Governance". No other SA tourist body has received such a prestigious accolade, especially not our lame-ass biased national tourist body.

Oops, looks like were all posting the news at the same time. LOL! Well, at least it shows we're all proudly KZN and proud Durbanites! :cheers:

this is a bit stale news... but here's more on the UN award...

Tourism Kwazulu-Natal wins UN award
Monday, May 14, 2007

Innovation in Tourism governance and management




DURBAN - KwaZulu-Natal's tourism marketing agency, Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, has won the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Ulysses Award for Innovation in Tourism Governance for its information and knowledge management systems. This was announced by KwaZulu-Natal premier S'bu Ndebele at the opening of the Tourism Indaba in Durban at the weekend. The prestige award comes at a time when SA is in the spotlight as it gears up to host the 2010 Soccer World Cup. Tourism KwaZulu-Natal CEO Ndabo Khoza said: "The timing couldn't have been better for the province or the country in terms of boosting our image. "It's a clear signal that SA's tourism management is among the best in the world, and that we have the innovation and technical skills to convert raw data into world-class strategies and then deliver on those. "We have a leading 32% share of the domestic tourism market, which ensures sustainability of tourism infrastructure and allows us to expand our offerings." The province invested more than R5bn in tourism infrastructure in the past five years. This includes the expansion of the International Convention Centre, developments at Zimbali on the north coast, the SunCoast Casino Hotel, the Sibaya Hotel expansion and further developments at Blythedale and the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, a world heritage site.

The Dube Trade Port, incorporating the King Shaka Airport, will allow direct international flights into the province. The annual Ulysses prize recognises innovation and application of knowledge in tourism. It is granted to individual scholars as well as to projects undertaken by tourism destinations, enterprises and institutions for their innovative contributions to tourism policy, destination management, environmental and cultural management, education, training and research, and excellence in service or tourism technologies. The KwaZulu-Natal entry covered information provision and distribution, information systems and databases, research, and electronic communications such as internet, telephone and fax services. The award follows the accreditation last year of the province by the UNWTO as a best destination management organisation, only the sixth accreditation in the world and the first in Africa. The world body granted the province accreditation for three years instead of the usual one. The award will be made in Madrid, Spain, at the end of the month. The annual Tourism Indaba was opened officially by Environmental Affairs and Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk. The theme this year is building a skills partnership for tourism development. Business Day
source site: http://www.fedhasa.co.za/Pages/News_Section_Details.asp?NewsSectionID=3&NewsID=21

testing new signature

This is so awesome for Tourism KZN

durban beach fes starts today then the big one the durban july ill be expecting updates and photos from u lot :-)

Yesterday's and especially today's weather has been / is just FANTASTIC!! It feel like summer or spring. Bikini and beach bum weather. Good timing for the beach festival.

Durban renaming approved

June 29 2007 at 01:38PM

The Durban High Court has ruled that the eThekwini Municipality could go ahead with controversial plans to rename several of the city's streets and landmarks

SABC news reported on Friday that the court rejected an application by the Democratic Alliance to force the eThekwini municipality to put a hold on street name changes.

Judge Jan Hugo has ruled in favour of the eThekwini municipality without giving any reasons.

The DA had asked the court to prevent the municipality from proceeding with the second phase of the renaming process and also asked for the first phase to be reversed.

Phase one of the city's renaming process saw eight major roads in the city centre renamed, as well as two buildings.

The municipality was set to proceed with phase two, but an outcry from segments of the public and a protest march of more than 10 000 people through the city centre on May 1 resulted in the municipality extending deadlines for residents to raise objections to the proposed changes. - Sapa

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=nw20070629133523737C276593

Two million visitors for KZN

June 29 2007

By Barbara Cole

The July holiday season, fast becoming as important as the Easter break, is set to attract two-million domestic tourists and 150 000 international visitors, Tourism KwaZulu-Natal predicted yesterday.

It has been worked out that the economic impact of their decision to holiday in the Zulu Kingdom will be just more than R2-billion, said Phindile Makwakwa, TKZN's general manager for communications.

An action-packed programme has been planned for the tourists, who are expected to go to popular destinations such as Durban central, the South Coast, Pietermaritzburg, the Midlands, the North Coast and the Drakensberg.

http://www.ioltravel.co.za/article/view/3908867

Cold snap won't affect Durban festivities

June 28 2007 at 04:22AM

By Ntokozo Mfusi

Real winter arrived with a vengeance in KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday. After a period of warm weather building up to Tuesday's berg winds and unusually high temperatures, the balmy conditions suddenly made way for a blast of icy weather, steady rain and widespread snow in the interior, sending many indoors.

Thanks to its subtropical climate, Durban cashes in on its usually fine winter weather to attract holidaymakers from the interior, hosting a number of mid-year festivities - not least of them the Vodacom Durban July horse race, which has already started to feel the impact of the bad weather with one of Thursday's events, the Gallops, having been called off.

Event spokesperson Lisa Harvey said that although the race had been cancelled, the rest of the Durban July would go ahead as planned regardless - with organisers expecting a sunny day next Saturday.

Tourism KwaZulu-Natal (TKZN) spokesperson Phindile Makwakwa said that despite the cold snap, Durban would still be warmer than the rest of the country.

"This is truly a bumper season for visitors and locals with the Durban Beach Africa Festival and the MTN Fashion week," said Makwakwa. "There is the Ugu Municipality Jazz Festival and the Sardine Festival. Hopefully, the weather will encourage the sardines to come closer to the shore."

TKZN expects more than two million visitors to the province.

Meanwhile, the cold and wet weather that is likely to be around for a while has hit residents of informal settlements and street dwellers hardest, as they try to stay warm and dry.

S'bu Zikode, chairperson of Abahlali Base Mjondolo - an organisation representing informal settlement dwellers - urged shack-dwellers country-wide to take care of themselves "because no one else will".

"Watch out for candles, stoves and drum fires that might put you in danger," he said.

Late on Wednesday night, power cuts were reported in Kloof, Waterfall, Westville, Cottonlands, Clermont, Cresta, Seaview, Pinetown, Cowie's Hill, parts of Umlazi, KwaMashu and Emolweni.


This article was originally published on page 4 of The Mercury on June 28, 2007


http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=14&art_id=vn20070628023703467C363753

jerome a trip to north is needed. i'm doing breakfast there tomorrow...join!

Also...i visited the south american threads earlier and i was shicked to see someone had posted pics of the recent snowy cold weather in SA, BUT had also posted some pics of frozen railings and the frozen sea and said this was how the weather had affected Durban!! Little did i know that the sea off durban had frozen! LOL

The link with the pictures is here:
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/212/517989373_da224c8283_m.jpghttp://farm1.static.flickr.com/225/517959586_3c4954a5d6_m.jpg

http://www.sudafrica.it/turismo.htm


Most people in the brazilian section believed it snowed and the sea froze on the cost of Durban.
They are argueing thats what it says on the official site listed above.

Im not a professional meteorologist but Im 101% sure it would have never happened in Durban or anywhere in the cost
of southern Africa......not even in the last Ice Age....

...but those guys insist in believing those pictures.:ohno:


Would much appreciate if any of the local forumers could confirm it or not?

Thats the link in the brazilian section,
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=491414&page=3
(from post #42)


cheers!!:cheers:

went and add my 50c worth to the forum. cant believe the stuff that gets "discovered". Those pictures (if they are from the official south african italian site) are probably of Marion Island, the south african research base which is very close to the antarctic. Thats the only thing i can think of.

^^ maybe its in those islands near the Antarctica but still doesnt explain why it says DURBAN in the official site of the SA embassy in Italy........!>?!>!>!>???

PS: I feel like ringing them up on monday to find out what they say about the pics on their site.....

Always knew Sheffield beach was the best hamlet on the north coast.

Kzn Coastal Prices Hit Clifton High - 2007/06/28

Coastal property along KZN's north coast seems to know no bounds - a Sheffield Beach property that has hit the market at R25 million, rivaling some of the Cape's most expensive seaside suburbs.

Carol Argo of Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty, Ballito, currently marketing the luxurious Caribbean style property says the home, located on the most exclusive portion of Sheffield Beach, known as Christmas Bay, is currently the most expensive property, outside of the nearby Zimbali residential estate, on the market in the area.

"It is likely to fetch full asking price due to the scarcity of developable land in exceptionally sought after position as has been seen in suburbs like Clifton and Bakoven along Cape Town's Atlantic Seaboard."

Argo says that Sheffield Beach is presently out-pricing all surrounding areas including Ballito, Shaka's Rock and Tinley Manor, as properties here are typically family owned and tend to stay within these circles.

"There are only 30-40 homes on the Sheffield Beach stretch of coast ranging from 1500-3000 in size which, when they do come onto the market, typically range from between R8 million and R35 million in price. Homes at the lower end of this range are generally purchased for their land and homes are demolished to make way for modern mansions.

"In the Christmas Bay portion of Sheffield Beach, just four homes offer direct beach access and this particular home has views directly onto 3km of undisturbed beach. The home has been designed by architect Bruce Stafford with double volume accommodation boasting interior design by Ian Falconer. It is being sold with all its contents".

For more information contact 032 946 2880 or 083 786 8530.

Durban renaming approved

June 29 2007 at 01:38PM

The Durban High Court has ruled that the eThekwini Municipality could go ahead with controversial plans to rename several of the city's streets and landmarks

SABC news reported on Friday that the court rejected an application by the Democratic Alliance to force the eThekwini municipality to put a hold on street name changes.

Judge Jan Hugo has ruled in favour of the eThekwini municipality without giving any reasons.

The DA had asked the court to prevent the municipality from proceeding with the second phase of the renaming process and also asked for the first phase to be reversed.

Phase one of the city's renaming process saw eight major roads in the city centre renamed, as well as two buildings.

The municipality was set to proceed with phase two, but an outcry from segments of the public and a protest march of more than 10 000 people through the city centre on May 1 resulted in the municipality extending deadlines for residents to raise objections to the proposed changes. - Sapa

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=13&art_id=nw20070629133523737C276593

Im confused? so does this mean the yassir arafat proposals are actually going ahead? anyway this is what Zille says. Things seems "calmer" in cape town but im sure the ANC will moan soon.


___________________________________________________________________

Speaker, a final issue that I would like to raise today before we proceed to question time is the street renaming process.

As many of the councillors here know, the City’s name change panel have carefully sifted about 300 proposals that were submitted by the public.

They used the City’s name change policy, and their own expertise as cartographers, historians and so forth, to arrive at 36 positive recommendations for name changes.

They have also left further possible name changes on the table.

These recommendations will now go out for extensive comment.

Despite some complaints from the opposition about this process, it has been entirely democratic.

The proposals came from the public.

The nominations for the name change panel came from the public – and no nominations were received from opposition parties.

A number of name change recommendations from across the political and cultural spectrum are on the short list, and the public will now have another chance to give formal input, before each name is put to the vote individually in Council.

We are doing this because we believe in an open society.

We believe in involving everyone.

Most streets and public places in Cape Town were named in a former dispensation.

Those who named them ensured that only their heroes and symbols were reflected - and effectively ignored all other sectors of our complex plural society.

We don’t want to make the same mistake again.

We also do not want to make the same mistake as Durban, which had to retrace their steps on name changes in the face of public outrage. Of 176 changes that municipality tried to make, 126 were proposals from the ruling party, and included names without direct links with South Africa - such as Fidel Castro.

We will avoid that route, and we will try, as far as possible, to accommodate everyone, as difficult as that may be.

haha, you know, now Im getting those frozen sea's email & they saying its cape town! next thing you know it will be jobrug's vaal dam :crazy:

KZN has best game lodge
June 30 2007

Thanda Private Game Reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal has been voted Africa's Leading Luxury Lodge at the 2007 World Travel Awards.

Not satisfied with winning the title of leading safari lodge in South Africa last year, the team at this exclusive lodge pulled out all the stops to ensure they waved the winning flag for the entire African continent this year.

The announcement was made at a gala function at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi.

Other finalists were Chobe Game Lodge in Botswana, Mnemba Island Lodge in Tanzania, Sabi Sabi and Ulusaba Private Game Reserve.

Thanda has been open for just over three years and offers a decadent main lodge set high on a hillside loverlooking the bush, a safari-style tented camp and an award-winning spa and wellness centre.

It is also the only private game reserve in the world to hold exclusive membership with The Leading Hotels of the World. - Travel Reporter

http://www.ioltravel.co.za/article/view/3900609

KZN has best game lodge
June 30 2007

Thanda Private Game Reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal has been voted Africa's Leading Luxury Lodge at the 2007 World Travel Awards.

Not satisfied with winning the title of leading safari lodge in South Africa last year, the team at this exclusive lodge pulled out all the stops to ensure they waved the winning flag for the entire African continent this year.

The announcement was made at a gala function at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi.

Other finalists were Chobe Game Lodge in Botswana, Mnemba Island Lodge in Tanzania, Sabi Sabi and Ulusaba Private Game Reserve.

Thanda has been open for just over three years and offers a decadent main lodge set high on a hillside loverlooking the bush, a safari-style tented camp and an award-winning spa and wellness centre.

It is also the only private game reserve in the world to hold exclusive membership with The Leading Hotels of the World. - Travel Reporter

http://www.ioltravel.co.za/article/view/3900609

I just love Thanda...
although it is marketed so well globally, (even on the site!!) it is still one of KZN's best kept secrets....

check this link from its website..
http://www.thanda.com/practical_info/pressclip/June_07/TheMercury-01June07.JPG

a pity about ICC Durban loosing its title at WTA as 'Africa's Leading Conference Centre' to Cape Town
But the ICC Durban did win the award for six years in a row since 2001!
and at least the award still stayed in South Africa!

Damn, that means Singita is 2nd :(

Durban gets luxurious buses

Bongani Mthembu
July 03 2007 at 07:11PM

The long-awaited, luxurious people mover buses will finally hit the streets of Durban on Thursday.

The buses, which cost the municipality R1,3-million each, were supposed to start operating in December 2005.

But the launch was delayed because of a bitter court battle between former Durban Transport employees and Remant Alton, the company which won the tender from council in 2003 to run the bus service.

An upbeat Mayor Obed Mlaba said the buses were part of the eThekwini Municipality's campaign to provide different modes of public transport.

'The aim was to improve our transport system'
"When we formed the eThekwini Transport Authority a few years ago, the aim was to improve our transport system.

"The new buses will help us improve our public transport system before the World Cup in 2010," he said.




Mlaba said although the people mover buses were aimed at tourists, it did not mean that non-tourists should not use them.

"We want to see people coming back to the public transport in their numbers. People currently do not have a variety of transport options.

"There are many people who need this type of bus service," he said.

'The new buses will help us improve our public transport system'
Mlaba said they had decided to introduce the people mover because private transport operators were unable to provide such transport service because they were profit-driven.

He said an efficient public transport system would see people using public transport instead of their own cars.

Twenty-eight drivers, who will be driving the buses have received training in tourism, on how to behave and also about how to handle people from different cultures.

One of the features that the buses have is an electronically operated hydraulic ramp for wheelchair-bound passengers to board easily and CCTV surveillance cameras to ensure safety of the passengers.

The buses will be monitored by the CCTV cameras' control room. They will cover the beachfront route from the soccer stadium, past Suncoast Casino, to uShaka Marine World.

A day trip will cost R15 and a single trip R5. The buses will be officially launched on Wednesday and start operating on Thursday.

This is great news, and will make durban so much more popular as a tourist destination!

finally!!!

I've got to try these out when they begin. Am curious to see how long it takes from Point to Ushaka and vice versa.

point to ushaka? hmmm 2 steps... hehe. But yeah it would good to take a ride on them. think i'll do that when at the beach on friday.

DURBAN - AFRICA'S BEACH SOCCER CAPITAL in the making...

Fast, action-packed game on 'legal steroids'
July 04, 2007 Edition 1
Highroad Reporter
SOUTH Africa is gearing up for 2010 and is getting ready to become the focus of the soccer world's attention in three years time, but it could be beach soccer that holds this country's first official World Cup soccer tournament - and all the matches could be played on the beaches of Durban.
While the 2010 World Cup is set in stone and the massive infrastructural changes are taking shape to host soccer's showpiece event, Durban is fast becoming the favourite to host the Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup finals in 2009. Durban's beachfront is once again buzzing with the sounds of World Cup soccer as the second African World Cup Beach Soccer qualifier is under way.
But what is beach soccer and how is it different to traditional field soccer? The ball is similar, the goals are the same, and players are also allowed to use their feet, head and body to control the ball - but there the similarities end.
The sport is a faster and more action-packed version of the game that has been played on grass for centuries.
Simple formula
The purists may shudder at the thought, but gone is the slow build-up to goalmouth action, which often results in a struggle between two teams more fearful of conceding a goal than trying to find the net.
Formal matches are played on a 37m x 28m pitch by two teams of five players set up on the beach sand. The relatively small field means top players have a chance of scoring from pretty much anywhere on the field. And that is a simple formula to ensure that goals are never in short supply.
A quiet beach soccer match is usually more exciting than any traditional soccer match can hope to be. For good reason, beach soccer has been described as field soccer on legal steroids.
Goals and goalmouth action are never in short supply (there was an average of nine goals per match at the 2005 World Cup), ensuring that fans have plenty to cheer about. There are never any dull 0-0 draws, with two teams making sure their defensive formations are so strong that neither has any opportunity to score. In beach soccer, it is not unusual for three goals to be scored in an action-packed minute.
And the uneven sand, which is the complete antithesis of a perfectly manicured grass soccer pitch, ensures that skills levels are high. The game is played predominantly in the air, with a premium placed on ball control.
The soft sand also means the players are prepared to throw themselves around - and the result is a non-stop ballet of spectacular bicycle kicks and diving headers.
The game is simple and needs nothing more than a couple of markers for goals. It can be played anywhere there is a beach - and South Africa is blessed with some of the best beaches in the world.
Non-stop
In Rio, permanent fields are set up on Copacabana Beach and over weekends the fields are occupied 24 hours a day, with everybody from children to women to ex-professional players enjoying their sport of choice in a non-stop series of pick-up games.
Then there is the lifestyle associated with the sport. In our sun-baked climate, a sport that promotes a mixture of beach, bikini-clad women, athletic men and music is almost guaranteed to succeed.
Beach soccer started informally on the Rio beaches of Brazil in the late
1980's, and was only formalised with an international set of rules in 1992. Although young, the sport has quickly grown to be an international game with a Fifa-endorsed annual World Cup, dominated by panache of the Brazilians and French.
The growth of beach soccer worldwide has been phenomenal. This can be put down to a variety of factors. The participation of internationally renowned players such as flamboyant Frenchman Eric Cantona, legendary Spanish strikers Michel and Julio Salinas and Brazilian stars such as Romario, Júnior and Zico means the sport has ready-made stars.
And the non-stop action, goals and general fun in the sun means spectators are guaranteed to enjoy the spectacle - so before 2010, make sure you get down to a beach near you.
Source: http://www.themercury.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=3916036

Durban's hot with so much to do this summer, I mean winter

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k59/DURBAN2010/DURBANBeachSoccer.jpg

DURBAN - AFRICA'S BEACH SOCCER CAPITAL

Durban - Africa's Beach Soccer Capital

Beach soccer bridges the gap
JUST days after Fifa boss Sepp Blatter reiterated his confidence in South Africa's ability to host the 2010 World Cup, Durban is to be in the spotlight as it hosts the Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup 2007 qualifier for the second time.

Last year the city played host to two highly successful tournaments - the African qualifier in September and then a leg of the Pro World Tour in December - that brought global pacesetters Brazil and France to the growing number of beach soccer supporters in the region.
Both tournaments won unstinting praise from the Fifa beach soccer fraternity for the slick organisation, the world-class beach stadium and facilities, the vast tourism capacity of the region, and the warmth of the welcome that visitors to the tournament enjoyed.
This year, the process has advanced significantly, largely based on the successes of these two tournaments. The city of Durban and the province of KwaZulu-Natal are both supporting the tournament as part of a long-term commitment to entrench Durban as Africa's capital of beach soccer, and one of the global nodes of the game.
The carrot at the end of this process is a concerted bid to secure Durban as the host for the 2009 Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup, an event that will not only attract 32 of the world's best teams to Durban, but also focus a multimillion-rand marketing spotlight on the city and region.
"The city is excited about beach soccer, and this month's Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup 2007 qualifier at New Beach in Durban," said Julie-May Ellingson, the head of the city's strategic planning unit.
"The sport reflects many of the attributes and characteristics of Durban, and utilises the beachfront that the city boasts. More importantly, the city's support for beach soccer is also about making the sport work at a developmental level, and growing the game for all the people in the region," she said.
"Beach soccer has a very low entry status, which is one of the major attractions for the sport. Anyone can participate. All you need is a ball and some sort of goals, and the game of beach soccer is truly accessible to a broad base of people."

Strategy
Ellingson said the support for beach soccer was part of the city's long-term strategy to entrench Durban as Africa's premier sporting destinations.
KwaZulu-Natal's backing of beach soccer is intended to harness the global spotlight that comes with the Fifa Beach Soccer Worldwide-sanctioned events. With a global audience watching the television footage that will run into millions across channels such as ESPN and Fox, one of the province's key marketing assets, the beach, will be profiled against a vigorous sporting profile.
Competition for the rights to host the plum Fifa Beach Soccer Worldwide-sanctioned event is hotting up across the continent as the sport takes root in countries like Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal, Morocco, Ivory Coast and, closer to home, as Mozambique and Mauritius are now active beach soccer- playing nations.
Fifa Beach Soccer Worldwide General Manager Fulvio Danilas saw the growth of the sport on the African continent, and was quick to point out that the soccer world body was throwing all its weight behind growing the game in Africa this year.
"Angola plays beach soccer, so does Benin, and there is strong interest in Mauritius now as well," said Danilas.
"In fact, the majority of the very strong French national side come from the island of Reunion."
The attraction of the sport is largely because it is so packed with action. The small pitch results in a shot at goal every minute of the match, on average.
This condensed action is packed in a slick package of music from DJs, live bands, and energetic stadium announcers encouraging audience participation.
Little wonder, then, that beach soccer is being seen as soccer's saviour - particularly after criticism at the last World Cup of the dull matches and a dearth of goals.
The Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup qualifier started yesterday at the purpose-built stadium on New Beach, on the southern part of Durban's Golden Mile. Friday will be a rest day, and the semi-finals will be played on Saturday, with the finals on Sunday.
The two teams that qualify for the final will represent Africa at the Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup in Rio in November.

* This article was originally published on page 8 of The Mercury
http://www.themercury.co.za/index.php?fSectionId=2867&fSearch=1&fQuery=Beach+Soccer

This week Sunday Tribune carried a great story in the sports pages on how the city authorities have delivered on their pledge to entrench Durbs as Africa's sports capital. The writer listed all the major events we are hosting / about to host and I was stunned.

I think Durbs is the hot favourite to win the 2009 bid if they keep up their high standards. Mike (Dysan) and I took a walk past the facilities on Saturday and everything looked fantastic. We also got some good sunset / moonrise shots from the beach cafe, which Mike will probably post at some point.

Durban July a boost for city's economy

July 04 2007 at 04:21PM

By Kamini Padayachee

This weekend's Vodacom Durban July race is expected to inject more then R110-million into Durban's economy.

Based on figures from previous races, the 56 000 people expected at Greyville Racecourse would spend about R85-million on catering, hospitality, fashion and entertainment alone.

Durban Africa Head Lindiwe Mahlangu said: "The Durban July is quite exciting because it attracts high-income spenders who come for the event, but who also enjoy the Durban Beach Festival activities, which only end on Sunday."

A clear indication that Greyville Racecourse would be packed on Saturday was the large increase in the number of bookings at accommodation establishments in Durban.

Hilton Hotel manager Gerhard Patzer said that the hotel was more fully booked from Friday onwards.

Gold Circle said that the underground tunnel from the main grandstands to the marquee village would be closed 35 minutes before the main race (4:20pm) on Saturday for an hour for safety reasons.

The racecourse would close at 9pm to enable punters to attend the 5fm Durban July after-party at the cycling stadium in King's Park Sports Complex. The crowd will be entertained by 5fm DJs Nicole Fox and Roger Goode. Tickets are available from Computicket at R100 each.

kamini.padayachee@inl.co.za

This article was originally published on page 6 of The Mercury on July 04, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=594&art_id=vn20070704031057377C319629

yeh we did get some great shots! just wanting to get some more day ones and then will post all! plus the concerts are on 2m and friday! get down if you can.

I feel like a cake, I had 2 tickets to go see UB40 at the Arena,....... & I said no! I was flippin tired yesterday & a friend called up saying he had 2 standing tickets for Ub40, I was soo pooped, if it were seated I would have went at the time, but being the lazy ass I am, I didnt!

Silly boy!! You could have referred him to me. Now I'll never forgive you! Hmff!

:ohno:

More on the buses...

---------------------

Durban improves its bus system

KENNEDY MUDZULI

JOHANNESBURG – Luxury buses are taking to the streets of Durban from this morning as part of the interim People Mover project.

The new buses are expected to improve the city’s public transport system ahead of the Fifa World Cup in 2010.

The People Mover project will cover the entire beachfront route, linking uShaka, Suncoast Casino and the city centre. It is intended to ultimately reduce traffic congestion.

Each of the 10 buses in the fleet has been fitted with closed-circuit television cameras, both inside and on the outside, as have the bus stops. These will provide added security.

The People Mover project is a pilot phase development of the city’s inner-city circulatory system. The goal is to provide a world-class public transport system which is safe, sustainable, comfortable and reliable.

Transport Minister Jeff Radebe said during the launch at uShaka Marine World yesterday the People Mover project was a step in the right direction towards attaining that objective.

“With its exceptional features such as high security, entertainment and disability access, the People Mover project will assist us in achieving a public transport system that places over 85% of the metropolitan city population within a kilometre of an integrated rapid public transport network,” said Radebe.

“We also want to achieve a mode shift of 20% of private car usage to public transport networks in order to cut down on traffic congestion on our roads.
“I would like to encourage the public to save their hard-earned money by using the affordable, safe and reliable Durban People Mover.”

http://www.citizen.co.za/index/article.aspx?pDesc=42687,1,22

It's difficult not to be a bit sceptical about the "people mover" system considering the debarcle in getting it up and running and the fact that it's run by a such an incompetent company. I really hope it does succeed though and look forward to seeing them. Has any marketing activity been done or are they going to run with only a couple of us curious forummers for the first month?

there have been ad's in all durban dailies (mercury, daily news, isolezwe and ilanga) plus in the post. There are also ad's for it on the beachfront.

The problem with getting it running is not the cities fault entirely. they chose remnant altron to run it and the workers from durban transport days werent happy cos they wanted control. I do believe that another company should have won to spur competition for remnant (who are bloody incompetent in most areas), but they are under a very different contract for running this new service, which has far stricter conditions. Also their citywide contract expires next year.....think they would want to do well to have a chance of keeping the operating license.

It would be absolutely fantastic for Durban if remnant loses their contract next year but I guess they're too well connected. Homer Simpson would do a better job of running the city's bus service.

Silly boy!! You could have referred him to me. Now I'll never forgive you! Hmff!

:ohno:

Damn, didnt think of you at the time, my bad.

I see that they starting to pave the corner's of the pavements in the CBD, well they started on Queen street, not sure if they will be doing all.

Interesting read on the way forward for the city. How it see's the way forward.

2010 and beyond: eThekwini's IDP08 June, 2006


The new IDP follows the Eight Point Plan approach of last year’s IDP review, but reflects more focused plans, and the use of value filters to the programmes and projects.

The IDP aims to translate our vision into a plan with budgets, time frames and monitoring mechanisms to achieve our 2010 targets, moving us halfway to achieving our Vision: “By 2020, eThekwini will be Africa’s most caring and liveable city.”

The key development challenges outline what the City needs to tackle. Over the past five years, significant strides have been made to address the challenges but there is a considerable distance to go to address the challenges of:

low economic growth and high unemployment
access to basic household and community services
high levels of poverty
low levels of literacy and skills development
sick and dying population affected by HIV/AIDS
exposure to a high level of crime and risk
many development practices still unsustainable
ineffective, inefficient local government


Key choices have been made to address the gap between the City Vision and the challenges.

CHOICE ONE: Improve port and logistics infrastructure

To maximise opportunities presented by the port and other firms that will partner with us in increasing economic opportunities.

CHOICE TWO: Land Use Management to increase densities and reduce sprawl

Use a spatial development framework and zoning of land use and management systems to increase densities and reduce urban sprawl – ensuring that people are brought closer to where they live, work, study and relax.

CHOICE THREE: Bridging the digital divide

Over the past three years, the City has extended its telecommunication infrastructure to connect all its sites, thus improving data and voice communication between sites. It is now possible to extend the opportunities for improving telecommunications to businesses, citizens and other public bodies.

CHOICE FOUR: Good public transport system

Ease of movement for commuters is vital. If Durban improves its public transport, it will reduce the need to increase road networks, provide a platform of connectivity between destinations, and reduce pollution by reducing the number of vehicles on the road.

CHOICE FIVE: Ecological and related tourism

The city’s natural resources have large economic benefits for tourism and economic development. This choice seeks to develop an innovative, effective and measurable marketing plan to grow tourism numbers. The development and maintenance of sophisticated tourism databases will better inform product development and marketing decisions.

CHOICE SIX: Ecological integrity

Balancing the social, economic and environmental needs will result in the efficient usage of our resources and ensure development occurs within the capacity of our natural surroundings.




THE EIGHT POINT PLAN

The City’s delivery plan is organised into eight plans. The plans, programmes and projects support each other to ensure greater impact.

PLAN 1: Sustaining our built and natural environment
Promote sustainable and integrated social, economic and environmental land use management – the desired outcome is sustainable land uses and management systems.

Sustaining the natural and built environments means the City must make decisions to balance social, environmental and economic goals.

Our natural systems provide services that either have no human substitute or require costly human intervention to substitute. Low-income people are most dependent on these free services.

The more protection we offer the natural environment, the more it will offer support to the poor. The open space asset also provides services that, if destroyed or degraded, require
costly replacement interventions. It is important to recognise that certain development cannot work in harmony with the natural assets. In instances such as these, there is a net environmental gain as a result of the development.

PLAN 2: Economic development and job creation

Develop the economic wealth of eThekwini for the material well-being of citizens – the desired outcome is strong economic growth and sustainable job creation.

Because of globalisation, nations are moving to integrate their economies with those of their neighbours. South Africa is a signatory to NEPAD and one of the partnership’s priorities is promoting regional integration on the continent.

Given the competitive nature of economics globally, the City is committed to an economic strategy that will accommodate national, continental and international pressures and agendas. This will best be achieved by building upon the strengths and opportunities that the City has.

PLAN 3:Quality living environments

Ensure all households have access to individual and community facilities and receive equitable and appropriate levels of service, community facilities and access to home ownership – the desired outcomes are fully serviced, well-maintained, quality living environments.

Although substantial progress in extending access to basic services has been made, the challenge of addressing service delivery backlogs remains. Basic services alone do not provide a quality living environment – the sustainable provision of community facilities and services is equally important to our neighbourhoods becoming total living environments.

A key element of this strategy is to ensure that houses are built closer to existing infrastructure, enabling people to live, play and work in their own localities.

The maintenance of built infrastructure forms an important part of protecting the investment made in our City. A programmed response to maintaining our City’s infrastructure will serve to reduce costs in the longer term by replacing neglected infrastructure. So maintenance becomes as important a city focus as delivery of services and facilities, and the approach of transforming formerly unkempt, litter-strewn areas into cleaner and attractive suburbs has been adopted by the municipality as part of the “cleaning and greening” concept.

PLAN 4: Safe, healthy and secure environment

Promote and create a safe, healthy and secure environment.

This plan seeks to highlight the key challenges we face in creating a safe, healthy and secure city, and our intentions for achieving this goal.

The strategic focus areas of this plan have been re-written to outline promotion of the safety, social security and health of citizens and the promotion of the safety of municipal assets.

PLAN 5: Empowering City’s citizens

Enable all citizens to achieve their full potential and for the City to become a centre of learning and to provide training for other local authorities.

Citizen empowerment demands an increase of consciousness within communities about their role in economic development and job creation. Only 16% of all adults are functionally illiterate, 38% of the adult population have matriculated and only 8% have tertiary qualifications.

EThekwini is positioning itself as a Smart and Learning City to cope with current and future challenges.

The Smart City concept aims to bridge the digital divide in eThekwini so that the City becomes a hub of information diffusion, and a centre for economic growth and integration. The Learning City approach has two aspects: firstly, the municipality should be a competent, efficient and learning institution; and secondly all external stakeholders should have access to learning opportunities.

PLAN 6: Celebrating our cultural diversity

Create the conditions under which sporting, arts and culture, and heritage opportunities can be realised.

This plan is intended to grow, stimulate and harness the enthusiasm and talents of citizens. By stimulating sports, arts and culture, and the heritage of the City and its citizens, there is growth for individuals and communities.

PLAN 7: Good governance

The desired outcome is that all citizens embrace and practise the concepts of good governance.

Good governance is, among other things, participatory, transparent, democratic, and accountable, and the creation of tools and enablers to ensure that it is practised city-wide is focused in this plan.

The good governance plan is constructed around accessibility of citizens to the municipality to ensure that “people are constantly put first”, creating a clean and accountable administration, and mobilising the organisation for effectiveness.

A further focus area of the plan concerns the way the City manages its knowledge, pilots new and innovative ways of service delivery, and promotes learning through building knowledge networks.

PLAN 8: Financial viability and sustainability

The desired outcome is confidence in municipal financial management.

The municipality has been implementing new national government legislation. This legislation is aimed at improving systems and processes. To fulfil financial, legislative and developmental requirements, much of the municipality’s capital budget has been redirected for new developmental expenditure and it has also extended its existing operating budget over a wider area to fulfil developmental goals.

To remain financially sustainable and align with the City’s sustainable development strategy, these financial challenges would need to be addressed. The challenge for financial sustainability amid increasing alignment around ecological, economic and social parameters of the IDP means that adjustments need to be made regularly. There is also necessary work to ensure that the rates base grows as a result of an increase in the growth of the economy.

Note: The IDP is a strategic document that cannot be read in isolation from the other processes that ensure the IDP is delivered.

The City Scorecard can be read in a balanced scored mode or against the Eight Point Plan. This organisation scorecard sets the broad fiveyear targets.
The Budget is compiled according to IDP principles and follows a process that prioritises key projects. It is monitored to ensure maximum expenditure.
Similarly, the Service Delivery Budget Implementation Plan produces quarterly targets that are reported on to ensure implementation of the IDP.

The Annual Report provides a collation of the year’s activities as recorded by the city scorecard, the budget, and the quarterly targets with reference to the Eight Point Plan.

To send comments or request details, contact the Corporate Policy Unit, 221 Smith Street, Durban.Call 311 3422 or email: kerr@urbstrat.org.za

That is an interesting read. Thanks for posting.

Durban gears up for Twenty20 showpiece

Posted on Friday, July 06, 2007 - 07:08

The Kwazulu-Natal Cricket Union (KZNCU) is leaving no stones unturned as they prepare for the first ICC World Twenty20 tournament to be hosted by South Africa in September.

Sahara Stadium Kingsmead had sold 15 000 seats for the tournament by midweek with the showpiece India/Pakistan match on September 14 part of the attraction in Durban.

“We have spoken to the ICC through Steve Elworthy [the tournament director] to provide tickets for the youth,” KZNCU CEO Cassim Docrat told SuperCricket.

“And we’ve made a breakthrough with the Department of Sport to propagate and promote in disadvantaged areas.”

Kingsmead will host nine matches that include two double-headers and a semifinal in ten days.

“We have to make sure we have additional changerooms, net facilities and a secondary field as there will be four teams involved on the double-header days,” Docrat added. “We have spoken to neighbouring schools as well to assist us.

“We’ve also got the India/Pakistan match and if South Africa goes through to the Super 8 we should have them for three matches.

“In terms of security, we spent a whole day with Rory Steyn [a security expert who has worked extensively for ICC events]. This is a festive type of tournament, so we don’t want what happened in the West Indies during the World Cup. We want it as user-friendly as possible, but with consideration of safety,” Docrat said.

The union will also have 170 volunteers during the course of the tournament. Any persons willing to assist can call the KZNCU on (031) 335 4200.

http://www.supercricket.co.za/default.asp?id=221058&des=article&scat=supercricket/domesticcricket

Durban switches on 2010 countdown clocks

July 06 2007 at 12:35PM

Two "countdown clocks" to the 2010 Fifa World Cup were switched on at Durban International Airport on Friday, a sponsor said.

"The clocks are counting us down to our deadline and bringing us together to unveil our beautiful city to the rest of the world," said First National Bank's KwaZulu-Natal chief, Gareth Davies.

Davies said the moulded fibreglass clocks would remind everyone arriving or departing from the airport that Durban was hard at work preparing for 2010.

"As a city, Durban is no stranger to hosting world-class sporting events. With events like the cricket and rugby world cup and the 13th World Aids Conference under our belt, we see 2010 Fifa World Cup as a fresh challenge," he said.

Airports Company SA spokesperson Colin Naidoo said Acsa was proud that the airport was chosen as the countdown location.

Saturday marks exactly three years to the 2010 Fifa World Cup semifinals to be staged in Durban on July 7, 2010.

The draw for the tournament's qualifying ties and groups will take place in Durban in November. - Sapa

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=180&art_id=nw20070706122942499C996080

Africa's greatest racing event

Richard McMillan
July 06 2007 at 06:16AM

The focus of millions of South Africans will switch from Australia to Greyville Racecourse in Durban on Saturday afternoon for the annual R150-million national betting splurge on the R2,5-million Grade 1 Vodacom Durban July.

The country's main interest in the morning will undoubtedly be the Tri-Nations rugby match between the Springboks and the Wallabies in Australia but, as the day progresses to the Greyville "off" time at 4.20pm, the interest will switch to Africa's greatest racing event run over 2 200m.

About 55 000 people will make their way into the stands, private boxes and picnic sites at Greyville, and the massive marquee village on the fairways of the Royal Durban Golf Course for the July "experience" - and the atmosphere will be electric.

The weather forecast is for fine conditions, with a moderate north-easterly blowing and temperatures reaching 24C. The Durban July will be run for the 111th time, and this year the 20-horse field is one of the most competitive in decades.

Racing pundits are giving at least half the field chances of winning - and the activity with the bookmakers is certainly not helping the punter's cause.

While all the talk has been about Mike de Kock's 3-year-old Kildonan, he is certainly not a strong favourite. In fact, from his opening call of 4-1, he has actually been easing out in the betting and, by late yesterday, was on offer at 5-1.

Similarly, J&B Met winner Pocket Power, who has been the steady second favourite, has also been on the drift. He opened at 5-1, but has eased through 11-2 and 6-1 to 7-1.

His drift in the betting could, to some degree, be connected to rumours that he had a leg problem, but this was discounted by trainer Mike Bass, who said he had worked well on Thursday morning.

Jay Peg and Successful Bidder have remained firm at 10-1 right from the opening call, as has Jagged Ice, but Charles Laird's runner, Hunting Tower, chosen as his ride by stable jockey Anton Marcus, was claimed on Thursday from 12-1 to 8-1, making him the outright third favourite.

The problem for punters is that since betting opened, claims have been made with bookmakers on a number of runners - including Silver Mist, Hilgrove, Natural Selection, Malteme, Veiled Essence and Royal Air Force - all confirming the general belief that this is a wide-open race.

The latest betting is: 5-1 Kildonan; 7-1 Pocket Power; 8-1 Hunting Tower; 10-1 Jay Peg, Successful Bidder, Jagged Ice, Buy And Sell, Royal Air Force; 12-1 Pick Six, Hilgrove; 14-1 Malteme, Ravishing, Sun Classique; 33-1 Silver Mist, Biarritz, Dynamite Mike; 40-1 Veiled Essence; 80-1 Natural Selection; 100-1 Singing Sword, Badger's Gift.

This article was originally published on page 1 of The Mercury on July 06, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=6&click_id=39&art_id=vn20070706023437335C901715

The Durban July is getting widespread international coverage, particularly in Oz and NZ. It's also being broadcast live by Sky. Great international exposure for SA horseracing and especially Durbs.

-------------------------

South Africa’s race of the year live on Sky Channel 6 Jul 2007

Tabcorp

South Africa’s premier horse race, the Vodacom Durban July, will be broadcast live by racing broadcaster Sky Channel this Saturday night.

The 2200m Vodacom Durban July, which was first run in 1897, is South Africa’s version of Australia’s Emirates Melbourne Cup. More than 50,000 racecgoers are expected to be at Greyville racecourse for the biggest day on the South African racing calendar.

The Vodacom Durban July will be one of three Group 1 events from Greyville, South Africa that are being shown by Sky Channel; the others being the Golden Horseshoe (1400m) and the Golden Slipper (1400m).

Strengthening the Group 1 flavour this Saturday night is the live coverage of a true English classic, the Eclipse Stakes from Sandown Park. The Eclipse forms part of Sky Channel’s regular Saturday night UK racing program.

The Group 1 Golden Horseshoe will kick off Sky Channel’s Saturday night international coverage at 11:20pm. It will conclude with a race at 1:35am from Haydock Park, which hosts the second UK meeting being broadcast by Sky Channel.

Form analysts rate this year’s Vodacom Durban July as an open affair, with top-rated South African galloper Pocket Power the 58kg topweight.

Three-year-old chestnut filly Sun Classique gives the race added interest for Australian racing enthusiasts, as she is the only Australian-bred in the field. A Group 1 winner of the Cape Fillies Guineas, Sun Classique is a daughter of Fuji Kiseki and out of the Last Tycoon mare, Elfenjer.

2004 Durban July winner Greys Inn went on to campaign in Australia, albeit unsuccessfully. He ran 10th in the 2005 Cox Plate and then 17th in the Melbourne Cup.

The NSW and Victorian TABs will be offering totalisator betting on the three South African Group 1s, as well as the UK racing from Sandown Park and Haydock Park.

The Quaddie for legs for UK racing this Saturday night are Races 2, 3, 4 and 5. The Daily Double is on races 3 and 5.

INTERNATIONAL GROUP 1 RACING ON SKY CHANNEL
SATURDAY 7 JULY 2007 (AEST)

SOUTH AFRICA Race 6 11:20pm Greyville 2YO Golden Horseshoe (1400m)

ENGLAND Race 3 12:15am Sandown Eclipse Stakes (2000m)

SOUTH AFRICA Race 7 12:20am Greyville Vodacom Durban July (2200m)

SOUTH AFRICA Race 8 1:15am Greyville 2YOF Golden Slipper (1400m)

http://www.thoroughbrednews.co.nz/spring-racing/?id=30078

http://i17.tinypic.com/67qr51c.jpg

The 5fm after party is going to be at the cycle stadium because of security reasons & the race course will be closed by 9pm, besides private tent functions. Panama room is having the official after party.

Cost of Durban-to-Gauteng petroleum pipeline likely to rise to R11,5bn

By: Terence Creamer
Published: 6 Jul 07 - 0:00

State-owned transport company Transnet has confirmed that the cost of its proposed multiproduct fuel pipeline project – which will carry petrol, diesel and jet fuel from Durban to Gauteng – is likely to rise some 20% to between R11-billion and R11,5-billion from its initial budget of R9,5-billion.

Transnet subsidiary Petronet has settled on the desirability of a 610-mm or 24-inch pipeline capable of transporting 6,5-billion litres a year of finished product to the country’s economic heartland. The initial design had been for a 406-mm or 16-inch pipeline, and had been based on historical economic growth rates, while the new configuration is in line with South Africa’s 6% growth target.

The pipeline also forms part of a bigger R78-billion, five-year capi- tal programme at the freight logis- tics group, and construction of the pipeline is expected to begin in 2008.

The proposed development, for which Petronet still requires a licence, will raise overall capacity to 25-billion litres a year and will have to be installed before the current network reaches its full capacity in 2010.

But CEO Maria Ramos has again cautioned that the capital cost could rise further if the project continued to be delayed by regulatory uncertainty.

Tension between the utility and the regulator spilt over into the public domain earlier this year after the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) rejected Transnet’s request for a 5,6% tariff adjustment. The ruling was based on the fact that the tariff-determination methodology had not been finalised and Nersa could, thus, only grant a 2,5% increase.

Ramos initially slammed the decision, claiming that the decision was jeopardising Petronet and the proposed Durban–Gauteng project. However, she struck a far more conciliatory note last week, saying that the group was engaging Nersa on the methodology.

She said that it was vital that a solution be found that would enable Transnet to earn a “fair return on invested capital”, given that, although it was a State-owned enterprise, it was not receiving any subsidies. She also reported that a special executive-level unit had been established to manage its relationship with the various economic regulators governing Transnet businesses, including Nersa.

Nersa, too, was responding positively, having revealed recently that the development of a tariff- determination methodology for the pipeline industry was “a matter of urgency”.

CFO Chris Wells told Engineer-ing News that the project was an example of Transnet seeking to build capacity ahead of demand, adding that the decision to invite tenders for a 24-inch carbon steel pipeline rather than the initial 16-inch proposal, was based on new growth projections.

The scale-up decision also came at a time when South Africa was increasing its importation of refined fuel products, owing to the limitations on domestic refining capacity. In fact, Total South Africa suggested earlier that South Africa could import between 1-billion litres and 1,2-billion litres of refined liquid fuels, including petrol and diesel, in 2007 alone.

Wells said that tariff certainty was crucial, as, without it, the project could place Transnet’s balance sheet at risk.

“No company would go ahead and build capacity for the next 25 years if it didn’t have a take-or-pay contract, or a guaranteed price. We are not looking at a take-or-pay contract, but rather a guaranteed price,” he explained.

He admitted that its tariff notification to Nersa had factored in a modest step change, which was slightly higher than the CPIX inflation index, but such certainty would obviate the need for even greater tariff changes at a later stage.

“We are asking for a step change in the tariff upfront to prevent a 20% to 25% increase further down the line. If we have a step change now, which would not be much above inflation, and maintain steady increases from there, the project defin- itely makes sense,” Wells explained.

Last year, Petronet’s contribution to Transnet revenue rose 15% to R1,2-billion on the back of volume increases from petroleum (8,1%), gas (14,6%), and a 2,5% tariff increase.

what a joke, 11bil for a 400mm pipe for what 500km, seems a bit steep. Let the chineese contractors in I say and shake the monoploy tree that the big 4 contractors are trying so hard to protect. when I hear the costs of projects in SA i actually laugh as they are so overpriced its crazy and as they are mostly state projects the poor old tax payer gets ripped off in order to keep ther builders at record profits

well have you done this type of job before? if so what costing do think it should be at? i read pipelines over in eastern europe costing far far more. surely it cant be so overpriced.

seems extraudingly high when considering Estern Europe etc have gharch climatic conditions to work in. if its 11bn and say 500km then its 22mil per km. I mean for that figure you should be getting a gold plated pipe. Compare to a 2 lane freewayt quality road at 4mil per km, its 5 times as coslty for someing 1000x smaller

so you havent done one? just wondering because i'm sure its more complicated than road

The Portfolio Committee on Transport (National Assembly), having undertaken an oversight visits to the national department of Transport and nine host cities.

Main highlights:

eThekwini

*eThekwini has decided not to go for a full BRT system as the principal 2010 public transport legacy project.
*Focus will be on upgrading, extending and revitalizing north-south rail corridor
*Challenge: Major challenge to greatly improve on very low levels of rail ridership, 17,000 out of 200,000 public transport trips per day. Majority being mini-bus taxi's
*Ambitions plans to transform the Warwick junction precinct exist and regulation of taxi ranks will take place.
*The plans to build a fly-over will not take place as funding has not been secured. The DOT believe that this project is car-friendly and free-way oriented and would not free up ground level space to public transport.
* Other 2010 plans include the inner-city People Mover bus project, stadium related pedestrian infrastructure, public transport priority lanes on some east-west corridors and a proposed extension of the rail line to Bridge City
* Taxi industry will act as feeders for the north-south rail corridor, but the city is unsure as to how the taxi co-operation will be secured.

so you havent done one? just wondering because i'm sure its more complicated than road

Mate Ive done every thing from Dams to 70 story towers and its all the same at the end of the day, Its just a frigging pipe goiung from A to B and its no where as multi task or time consuming as a freeway.

My comments are based on the excessive costs that seem to be going around at the momnet for stadiums , airports and pipeworks. Compares to say the spinaker at 250mil for a 30f appartement tower that has taken 2 years to complete and is far more labour and time intesnsive

What a weekend,..... whats this about pipes?

seems some contractor is trying to rip joe tax payer off AGAIN. I recon the solution is to allow foreign contractors in and then watch the fur fly as the cartel try to keep prices artificially high

True, I actualy told that to some guys last week at one of our site meetings, they also seem to have the same suspicion that I have over the crane numbers at site, I bet you now, they we will see some excesive number of equipment for the airport as well.

South Africa: Locally Manufactured Toyota Corollas Head to Europe

BuaNews (Tshwane)

12 July 2007
Posted to the web 12 July 2007

Thapelo Sakoana
Pretoria

As from next year, the South African subsidiary of motor company Toyota is expected to export its locally produced Toyota Corollas from Durban to Europe - a move set to boost the economy of KwaZulu-Natal.

The decision was taken following a meeting on Wednesday in Tokyo, Japan between the provincial government and Toyota representatives.

At the meeting with KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sbu Ndebele, the vice chairperson of Toyota Motor Corporation, Katsuhiro Nakagawa said Toyota South Africa would produce Corollas specifically to be exported to Europe.

Mr Nakagawa announced that about 50 engineers had already been sent to South Africa to help with the manufacturing of the vehicles.

"Toyota is determined to produce more vehicles in South Africa which can be exported to other countries.

"The exporting of vehicles from South Africa to other countries is very important for South Africa's economy. The automotive industry is also important for the development of South Africa," he said.

He said they also wanted an increased presence in Japanese automotive parts suppliers in South Africa as the country was considered to be the gateway to the rest of Africa.

"We want to make our South African plant more competitive compared to Toyota plants in other countries," he said.

In a bid to ensure the competitiveness of their South African plant, he acknowledged that the training of workers would be important to achieve this.

"If we skill more workers, more automotive parts supplier companies will come to South Africa".

He explained that they planned to establish a Toyota Training School in South Africa, which would benefit the company's employees and create a much needed skills base for growth.

"We want to listen to the voice of the workers to be able to produce more vehicles, more efficiently and effectively. Training, development and education of our workforce must be intensified," said Mr Nakagawa.

The production of the latest model of the Toyota Corolla in South Africa is currently proceeding well and will be launched in August this year.

"However, we are trying hard to introduce new models of Toyota to be produced is South Africa as well," he said.

Premier Ndebele appreciated the confidence shown by the company to South Africa, particularly KwaZulu-Natal.

"We appreciate the new investment of more than R4 billion at the plant at Prospecton in Durban. However, we would like to see Toyota producing other automotive components in KwaZulu-Natal as well," he said.

Mr Ndebele said they would welcome the development of an Automotive Supplier Park in the province.

He said it was important to accelerate training of the current and future workforce.

"Continuous training is very important. We have to train all the time. For the market in South Africa, the market in Africa and the market elsewhere, training is important," he said.

http://allafrica.com/stories/200707120610.html

Residents watch their homes wash away

July 12 2007 at 09:50AM

By Ntokozo Mfusi

Residents of Eastmoor Crescent in La Lucia, Durban, are at their wits' end, watching helplessly as their homes slide into the sea because of sand erosion, and frustrated by efforts to stop them repairing the damage.

Norman Reeves and his neighbours, including Sizwe Nxasane, Boysie Naidoo and Pastor Ray McCauley, of Rhema Ministries, have been watching the sand dune disappear from their backyards. They have lost about 10m since the recent tidal wave action and the sand continues to recede.

"All our neighbours are in the same position, and all we can do is fill the sand up again and put in gabion baskets to stop the erosion from continuing," said a frustrated Reeves.

'We have done nothing more than protect our property rights under the constitution'

"When we took it upon ourselves to sort things out, we received a court interdict to stop because we were trespassing on council land." He had spent R157 000 on gabion baskets and rocks to build up a protective wall, but was told it was illegal and that the soil erosion was a natural phenomenon that would soon stop once the sea conditions had changed and sand that was washed away was pushed back.

Reeves disputed the council's accusations that residents were responsible for the erosion because they had contravened local or national building regulations. He said the problem had been worsened by a storm-water drain positioned between his and his neighbour's properties.

"We have done nothing more than protect our property rights under the constitution," said Reeves.

McCauley echoed Reeves's concerns that the damage was continuing and that there was no long-term solution from the municipality.

"Last year, we were told it was our responsibility to protect our homes. I feel (the council) must have some responsibility for land outside our property because it belongs to them," said McCauley, who had used sandbags to help ward off the erosion.

Andrew Mather, the municipality's Coastal Policy project executive, said houses in Eastmoor Crescent were closest to the sea.

Home owners had encroached on council land and had built gardens that had then became "illegal structures". Any reinforcements to prevent the erosion would be illegal because this would be done on council- owned land, he said. City Manager Michael Sutcliffe blamed residents for ignoring environmental regulations.

"The dunes existed there to protect them; it is illegal to put up a gabion wall because they will be doing this on council ground, and they need to let the dunes build up naturally again."

ntokozo.mfusi@inl.co.za

This article was originally published on page 5 of The Mercury on July 12, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=14&art_id=vn20070712033657684C917106

^^ i dont give a damn about their plight. Those homes were built far too close to the beach in the first place. Then owners have cut the natural beach foilage out to get better seaviews. without the plants there is nothing holding the sand in place. Greedy people with no respect for the environment should be dealt a heavy blow in return. maybe this will teach other people to be considerate with their actions in future.

hey there guys. i'm back from hols. See that the forum has been rather quiet... take it a few others have been away too? I know Tom was.

anyway, back to the developments. This one will serve the big demand in low/mid income areas. In Effingham, right near Riverhorse Valley.



New 53-unit Greenhill targeting affordable market


(New Developments) DURBAN (July 13) – Launched on July 15 and aimed at the more affordable market is the 53-unit GreenHill Estate in the centrally located Effingham Road area. Located in Manjee Place on one of the last undeveloped pieces off North Coast Road, the property is well located for easy access to schools, mosques and the adjacent Effingham/ North Coast Road business precinct.

The development offers modern two- and three-bedroom units prices from the lower R600 000s to the upper R700 000s. Construction is set to start in February 2008 with occupation in November 2008. The development is being sold off plan by new development specialists Prop2000.

Mount Rushmore sold for “bargain price” of R50m


(New Developments) DURBAN (July 13) - The 188ha Mount Richmore Village Estate near Salt Rock on the KwaZulu-Natal north coast achieved a selling price of R50m at an on-site auction on June 21.

The property, according to Peter Golding, CE of auctioneering company, Pam Golding Commercial, had to be sold within 90 days due to a court order.

The property was purchased by Em and Em Engineering (Pty) Limited, a Gauteng based company, represented by Frikkie Lutzkie, who is one of the shareholders of the company selling Mount Richmore, Fantasy Construction (Central) (Pty) Limited.

Says Golding: "Prior to auction the property aroused huge interest, but on the day, the price achieved is what the market was prepared to pay at that time. The new owner has acquired the property at a bargain price.”

The prime located property has all planning and approvals in place in regard to development of the site into a self-sustaining urban village. Paddy Smuts, manager of Pam Golding Commercial Auctions, says given that all the groundwork for the project had already been done the acquisition provided a rare opportunity for the investor.

The project will incorporate mixed-use commercial, retail and residential sites; a number of group housing sites; commercial node, retirement village; individual freehold residential stands; hotel site; guest lodge site and site for a private school. This incorporates some 2 200 opportunities - comprising residential units, conservation zones, open spaces, central public oval, suburban office precinct and a business node with shops, entertainment areas, restaurants, arts and craft workshops.



Submitted: 13 Jul 2007

Have any of you seen the changes up here?? its rather impressive!

Eshowe Golf Estate holes R17m in sales

(Golf Estates) ESHOWE, Zululand (July 130 - An increasing demand for homes in Eshowe has seen 85 stands at an approximate total value of R17m sold at the new Eshowe Hills Eco & Golf Estate - the first golf estate development in Zululand.

Set on a 110ha site the estate comprises a total of 184 stands priced from R175 000 to R550 000. In phase one 74 of the 94 stands have sold, while 11 more stands have sold in the recently launched phase two - comprising the balance of 90 stands. The average size of the stands is 1 000sqm, with smaller plots of 550sqm and larger ones of 1 400sqm.

Marketing agent Simon Gardner of Pam Golding Properties Eshowe, says the bulk of buyers to date are from Gauteng, purchasing for holiday home or future retirement.

Although Eshowe's residential property market has experienced good growth over the past three years Gardner says it continues to offer extremely sound value for money.

Residential prices range from R320 000 to R1 million.

The estate includes a 100-year old top class 18-hole golf course designed by the late Bob Grimsdell, eight tennis courts and two squash courts.

Gardner says some first phase transfers have already taken place with the first two owner having taken occupation of their homes. The monthly levy of R930 includes two full memberships for adults for all the club facilities

Architectural design of the estate is Victorian Zululand - incorporating wrap-around verandas. Homeowners need on their sites within three years of taking transfer.



Submitted: 13 Jul 2007

KZN rentals outstrip national average

(Rentals) DURBAN (July 13) -KWAZULU-Natal rentals have climbed 33% in the past few years with greater Durban now commanding rates significantly higher than the national average, statistics released this week in the latest Trafalgar property index demonstrate.

The shift nationally is seen as only the start of substantial rises over the next decade with rents already having risen 8,26% in the year to June 2007. Although KwaZulu-Natal properties only achieved a 7,82% increase for the period, the medium-term growth reflects the latent value in the property market.

Nationally, the average tenant was paying 30% more in rentals over the same period. Coming from a base of 100 in 2003, the national Trafalgar rental index has shifted to 129,3.

Andrew Schaefer, MD of national residential letting agents Trafalgar, says the South African residential rental market was “picking up steadily” with rentals rising 6,43% between June 2005 and 2006; 6,88% in the year to December 2006 and experiencing another above-inflation hike in the year to June 2007.

Schaefer cites a host of factors that translate into constant rent rises being inevitable. Essentially, householder formations or the demand for rental accommodation appears to far outstrip the creation of new stock or supply. “It is a pity the exact data is not readily available,” he says.

However, there are indications that it is not only population growth driving demand, but the rapid reduction in household sizes. This is despite a general feeling that the number of foreign Africans coming into South Africa is greater than statistics reflect.

University of South Africa (Unisa) data reveals that household sizes have dropped from 4,48 in 1996 to 3,69 a decade later and that the number of households have grown from 9-million to nearly 13-million. Based on this data, Schaefer estimates there are about 450 000 households being formed annually of which around 100 000 will be tenants.

Schaefer says there are other factors affecting rental demand, including the number of single households. Making up a large proportion of tenants, these households now account for about 25% of the total – double the figure from 1995.

There is also a growing demand for rental accommodation among young people wanting more mobility than previously and finding their choice of good homes for indefinite periods from the growing ranks of buy-to-let investors.

On the other side, escalating house prices tied to increasing interest rates is pushing more first-time buyers off the property ladder. “Linked with that phenomenon, there is a slowing down of new apartment developments and rental stock by developers facing rising interest rates and escalating building and land costs at a time when house prices are not rising as rapidly as a year ago,” Schaefer says.

Pretoria remains the laggard of South African cities with its index at 115 and rents dipping 0,62% in the year to June. Cape Town rentals rose 6,8%, but at an index rating of 126,continues to lag the national index. Johannesburg shares the KwaZulu-Natal index rating of 133 having experienced rental increases of 11,88% for the period under review.



Submitted: 13 Jul 2007

It will be interesting to see who buys it, and what their plans are. (from Friday's Mercury (http://www.int.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=594&art_id=vn20070713021703537C660721).)

Umhlanga complex to sell for millions

Greg Arde
July 13 2007 at 01:37PM

In what has been billed as the biggest property auction in KwaZulu-Natal, a shopping centre in Umhlanga Rocks will go under the hammer in August.

Umhlanga Plaza, a 10 300m2, four-storey complex of about five buildings, is situated next to the controversial Pearls residential development and boasts stunning Indian Ocean views.

The centre is home to a number of popular restaurants, including Cottonfields, Ille Maurice and Lord Prawn.

Hein Hattingh, Regional Director of Auction Alliance, said keen interest in Umhlanga property had prompted the centre's owner, based in Portugal, to put it on the market.

"It's a great property. Nothing of this size and in this type of location has been on the commercial/retail property market in KZN. This is among the most sought-after pieces of real estate in the country.

"Our valuers predict it will fetch record figures that will result in the highest price ever achieved on a property auction in the country," Hattingh said.

In June, a vacant sea-facing site in Ballito sold for R50-million on auction.

Next month's auction has attracted the interest of managers of Johannesburg Stock Exchange-listed property funds, many of whom have proved eager to increase their investments in KwaZulu-Natal.

If Umhlanga retains its status as one of South Africa's most popular holiday spots, the new owners of the Plaza will be able to raise the rentals for shops and offices there.

Hattingh said the real value in the property might lie in the development potential.

Plans for a five-star hotel on the site had previously been approved, he added.

A recent indicator of confidence in the KwaZulu-Natal property market was the decision by insurance giant Old Mutual to commit almost R500-million to property developments in the province this year.

Another indication of the buoyancy was the recent sale of a house at Zimbali Coastal Estate for R29,5-million. Another property there is on sale for R35-million.

Sales and Marketing Director Andreas Wassenaar said property transactions worth R440-million took place in Zimbali in 2006.

In December 2006 an auction reflected just how much the province's property shares had shot up.

A 44 000m2 property in Springfield Park fetched R52,2-million at an Auction Alliance sale. Four years earlier, the same property had sold for R5-million.

Brokers said there had not been as much interest in the market for 30 years.

Hattingh said that although the province's residential property market had cooled, the prospects for the commercial and industrial market looked good for the next four years.


This article was originally published on page 5 of The Mercury on July 13, 2007

US, SA to share crime fighting initiatives
Barbara Cole
July 16 2007 at 10:25AM

THE managing director of the KZN Business Against Crime will soon be on his way to America to learn all about crime-prevention initiatives - and to tell police there about successes back at home.

"I do believe we can learn from each other," said Kelvin Glen, who has been chosen by the US Embassy to take part in an International Visitors Programme, designed to expose potential leaders to their American professional counterparts and to American institutions, policies, culture and values.

But it won't be all boardroom talk, said Glen, who will be meeting government and law enforcement agencies in Washington, Chicago, Miami and New York City as well as talking to the Chambers of Commerce, business leadership, the corporate sector and non-governmental organisations.




"I will be going out with the police on the ground to see their challenges," he said.

He will also be working at operational level with community policing forums, 911 call centres and NGOs.

"I want to form long-lasting relationships and share best practices.. A crime-free and stable South Africa is of keen interest to the international community and an investment-friendly environment encouraging economic growth is high on our agenda," said Glen.

He leaves on his "demanding, educational and exciting" trip on August 9.

I saw that about the plaza in the sunday paper. looks very promising. it is indeed very prime land and would definately get a demolition team in once the sale and redesign have gone thru. would be a great mixed use hotel/retail site.

Toyota are investing an additional R4 billion in the Durban plant to get it ready for further exports of the new Corolla to Europe. As i said a few months back, Toyota are aiming for the Durban plant to be one of their 5 top plants worldwide and aim to triple volumes in the next 10 years.

I finally got around to going to the Jazz Club across from the city hall and was so impressed. Awesome venue and excellent live music! Got me thinking the city should create a music/theatre district around the Playhouse. That area is really nice at night, it just needs more happening. And with the people mover stop right there it's easily accessible.

Getting really irritated with the continuous stream of negative and inacurrate reporting we have in our papers. The recent release of crime stats has seen a wave of articles where reporters have manipulated the stats to create the worse possible scenario. I realise crime is way, way too high but why then exagerate it further. In yesterdays paper there was an article stating something along the lines of "KZN residents will be alarmed to know that KZN and Guateng account for the majority of carjackings and residential and business burglaries". This statement is true but only because Gauteng has the highest figures for these crime categories. It's like saying South Africa together with China accounts for a large portion of the world's population. A look at statistics shows that KZN does have the 2nd highest rate of carjackings (but less than half that of Gauteng), but has the 2nd lowest rate of residential burlary and the 3rd lowest rate of business burglary. The reporter has instead deliberately tried created the impression that these crimes are most common in KZN. The local press (especially the white papers) is doing this country a huge disservice in its constant emphasis on the country's and province's failures.

^^ the other funny thing when they report, is that they forget to mention that yes of course KZN and Gauteng have the highest number of incidents, for we have the 2 highest populations, far exceeding 3rd onwards. If you actually take the crime stats and view them on a per capita basis rather than pure numbers, the other provinces are actually worse off than KZN and Gauteng in most instances. At the end of the day per capita figures are the important ones, not the real number, for an idiot could figure out that areas with the greatest population will have the greatest incidences of crime

I finally got around to going to the Jazz Club across from the city hall and was so impressed. Awesome venue and excellent live music! Got me thinking the city should create a music/theatre district around the Playhouse. That area is really nice at night, it just needs more happening. And with the people mover stop right there it's easily accessible.

Did you go to the Piato upstairs? it has the most awesome design with all the exposed wooden beams of the playhouse building. it is most fascinating and the food and atmosphere is great.

There is a council document from 2003 that stated one aim of the city has to develop the city hall precinct as a cultural zone. So i do think they have a similar vision to you. The problem is that they need buy in from many stakeholders.

But things are happening. A building in the side street off from city hall (between the playhouse complex and the albert hotel) id being converted from Offices to Residential. It will offer 120 units with groundfloor retail. The groundfloor area is to be taken up by a new theatre and restaurant. it is 2 buildings from Smith street. So change is happening. Hopefully more will happen.

We already have the great World Symphony series concerts in city hall and theatre in the playhouse and royal. just need a few more galleries and nite spots (but not common clubs)

Our office is part of the investigation team into the cause of the Seaboard Hotel fire & is also part of the renovation team, I think we sitting with every single blue print for that place! we got like a million drawings everywhere! & it stinks!

Did you go to the Piato upstairs? it has the most awesome design with all the exposed wooden beams of the playhouse building. it is most fascinating and the food and atmosphere is great.

There is a council document from 2003 that stated one aim of the city has to develop the city hall precinct as a cultural zone. So i do think they have a similar vision to you. The problem is that they need buy in from many stakeholders.

But things are happening. A building in the side street off from city hall (between the playhouse complex and the albert hotel) id being converted from Offices to Residential. It will offer 120 units with groundfloor retail. The groundfloor area is to be taken up by a new theatre and restaurant. it is 2 buildings from Smith street. So change is happening. Hopefully more will happen.

We already have the great World Symphony series concerts in city hall and theatre in the playhouse and royal. just need a few more galleries and nite spots (but not common clubs)

Yeah I did go to Piato. That venue is amazing, it's a part of the Playhouse I've never seen before. The restaurant is however currently being relocated downstairs so that it's incorporated into the Jazz Lounge. The upstairs venue will be hired out for private functions.

That's good news about the new theatre and restaurant. I'd like to see some venues in that area spill out onto the street. Pavement cafes and "exposed" music venues where you get a taste of the music and glimpse of the band as you walk past like in New Orleans.

Whilst I have always been very annoyed with people who only complain about the crime, particularly when it's inaccurate reporting, it's the biggest issue facing SA today and I would rather the press exaggerates the situation than that they under-play it. My personal feeling is that the crime situation was improving until the last year or two and that it has gotten worse again. I know this isn't a crime forum, but what is your view on this?

I think it's been pretty constant (not that that's a good thing). In the suburbs it seems to have increased but decreased in the central areas. Crime is just a symptom of the moral decay and the huge economic disrepancies we have. Those are the issues that need urgent attention. Sure the government needs to do a lot more to deal with crime but the press is feeding public paranoia on the issue. People who are enclosing thmeselves in virtual prisons to avoid crime are its biggest victims (even though many of them have never actually had crimes commited against them).

Guys I went to Durbs for the beach africa thing and all I can say is wow: had a great time. The cafes/ bars on the beach were superb, the weather was great and the vibe was superb. i stayed in the royal hotel and even took a walk round town and I have to say it seemed pretty clean in the area around the royal ( but sadly it is still a hell hole from the Spoornet building to the beachfront)

UShaka was superb: went to cargo and got a free tour of the marine park after and was also pleased to see a Moyos is opening there right on the beachfront.

Went to Suncoast which was an awesome beach and went back on a saturday night but was a bit suprised to find that everyone there was Indian: having just got back from India the week before I felt I had been transported back to Bombay!!!


UNTC was AWESOME. By far the best example of new urbanism I have seen in the SA and indeed probably in the world. When it is all completed Durban will be stunning.

Florida Road was a great vibe with some great bars.

All in all I had a great time in a great city.

Glad you enjoyed it Mike! Sounds like you got to see quite a bit of the city.

Excellent. Can't wait to be home again in a few months.

Glad you had a great time mike. I know what you mean about the beach cafes. They truely went much more upmarket this year for the festival and it paid off. The cultural mix was also far better this with the help of the sabc stage. i was listening to bands i had never heard of in a language i cant speak, but i was having a great time.

it is sad that you cant walk from city hall to the beach area without being exposed to ugly buildings and levels of decay. I think the people mover will help spur people into action in those areas for they will be on the route. i already know of one dev that is happening because of the new road out from the point that has opened up that whole back area behind the beach and icc. it will be launched shortly and is rather high rise at 14F.

tell us more?

Speaking of arty things in the city centre, here's some good news that will hopefully spur more arty initiatives in the months to come....

-------------------------

Top arts congress for Durbs

July 17, 2007

Next year sees the first time the congress of the International Society for the Performing Arts (Ispa) will be held in Africa and The Playhouse Company is proud to represent Durban as host from June 19 to 25 next year.

As such, the Playhouse will hold a briefing session for performance arts practitioners about the congress this Saturday at noon in the Playhouse Alhambra Room.

Ispa's mission is to "support innovation, collaboration and best practices in the creation, management and presentation of the performing arts in an international context." Its 600 members comprise the who's who of the international arts community, representing all art disciplines.

Immediately preceding the conference a two-day academy session will be held, designed as a training forum for arts practitioners extending over four days and with three primary elements: Programmatic sessions including a mix of lecture, discussion, open forum, demonstration and performance; social and cultural events reflecting the unique resources available at the specific congress location; and ongoing education of Ispa members in order to strengthen the capacity of their leadership.

Among the other aspects this will offer local arts practitioners exposure to an international arts comm-unity. To confirm attendance contact Mala on 031-369-9456. - Tonight Reporter

http://www.tonight.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=3937842&fSectionId=410&fSetId=251

finally got to see the moses mabhida stadium seating system, its 60,000, 70000 and 85,000 configuration.

great. pls explain more if u can in the stadium thread bud :)

Cross-post from aviation thread.

Well, at least the hugely successful Virgina Airshow, the biggest on the Continent (and apparently 2nd oldest in the world), will continue if this recommendation is accepted...

-----------------------------

Plan to keep Virginia Airport unchanged

July 18 2007 at 07:34AM

By Matthew Savides

Durban city officials have recommended that Virginia Airport remains in place and operates as is, despite the new King Shaka International Airport being built about 25km away.

The recommendation was made in a report by the economic development unit of the eThekwini Municipality, which analysed the six possible options for Virginia in light of the new airport and other developments north of Durban.

The report, which will be tabled before the economic development and planning committee tomorrow, took aviation, environmental, business, municipal and timing issues into consideration when making the recommendation.

The six options were that Virginia Airport: remained as was; remained as it was with an extended runway; moved to the King Shaka International Airport; moved to the Durban International Airport once the King Shaka International Airport opened; moved to an entirely new general aviation airport at Cato Ridge; or closed.

Early in the unit's investigation, it was decided that the options of closing the airport or moving it to Cato Ridge were "not viable" in that none of the operators now at Virginia would consider moving, nor would they agree to the closing of the facility.

Added to this, the unit said that "Durban as a primary city requires a general aviation airport" and that it should not be closed down.

It also suggested that moving to the Durban International site would "be difficult to achieve as competition for the property was fierce and the general aviation airport was unlikely to compare favourably in economic terms against such strong industries".

It continued that the move to the King Shaka site was "not possible", as plans for the provision of a general aviation airport had not been factored into the original plans. The option of keeping the site and upgrading the runway was not entirely viable when compared to its economic benefit, as it would cost about R7.5 million.

The report suggested that the airport remain as it was, adding that a facility like this was "typical of a modern city".

If the economic development and planning committee accepts the recommendation, it will go to the executive committee and then to the full council.

matthew.savides@inl.co.za

This article was originally published on page 1 of The Mercury on July 18, 2007

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_i...4017368C422964

great. pls explain more if u can in the stadium thread bud :)

yeah def will. ive been told its on the net too so just finding it.internet graphics may be poor though.

By: Irma Venter
Published: 19 Jul 07 - 11:44
Proposals are on the table for at least three other ‘Gautrains’, says Department of Transport director-general Mpumi Mpofu.
“There are similar proposals for Tshwane, and another for Durban and Cape Town.

The challenge now is to make a framework available for these and other proposals to be dealt with, assessed and approved as fast as possible,” Mpofu tells Engineering News Online.

Gautrain – a public–private partnership between Gauteng province and Bombela, a consortium consisting of international partners Bombardier, Bouygues and RATP, and local stakeholder Murray & Roberts, along with black economic-empowerment company Strategic Partners Group (SPG) – is a R25-billion rapid-rail link between Johannesburg, Tshwane, and OR Tambo International Airport.

Construction started in September 2006 and completion due in 2011.

Bombardier Transportation communications director Neil Harvey says his company believes there are indeed “many other opportunities like Gautrain available in South Africa”.

He does not want to comment on whether Bombardier has submitted any of the proposals for the other ‘Gautrains’.
He says the rail giant will always be interested in high-speed passenger rail links, light-rail projects, or more standard metro-type commuter links, whether it involves vehicle supply or maintenance only, or providing a turnkey system.
“Often, finance is a problem, but we can help arrange it.”

You've got to be kidding! Public transport needs to be developed hugely but more Gautrains would be about as costly and inefficient as we can possibly get. They wouldn't even give Durban a few hundred million for a tram system yet propose another Guatrain that would cost about 100 times as much! Something stinks.

You've got to be kidding! Public transport needs to be developed hugely but more Gautrains would be about as costly and inefficient as we can possibly get. They wouldn't even give Durban a few hundred million for a tram system yet propose another Guatrain that would cost about 100 times as much! Something stinks.

i totally agree. The city tries to be innovative in a SA context and gets told "sorry thats not high priority enough and we dont have funding" but surely transport is the backbone of any WC?

More gautrains would be absolutely pointless, i still believe one is pointless in most respects. We already have commuter rail, enhance it! for other areas other forms of transport need to be incorporated (tram - like the city wants to do would be perfect for it is far cheaper, easy to access and gets intergrated into the existing infrastructure).

If they want to invest in high speed rail, save it for inter city travel.

Me thinks the people who stuck their fingers in the gautrain pie are trying to score even more ill deserved money by pushing for a "roll out".

durban is not even that big on rail, the numbers arent even that great unless we talking maybe durbs joburg. the emphasis should not be on quantity or cost but on quality, and to achieve this quality a "gautrain" is unecessary. same with cape town, although the numbers are different, quality is the issue, something that might change if a new private company operates the rail service, but again a gautrain from the cape flats to the cbd is unecessary, they might be involved in the airport city rail link but thats just 1.5 billion rand.

Worlds Sexiest DJ : Colleen Shannons in town tomorrow night at Eighties!!! anybody going???

http://hq.ellf.ru/2006/10/20061013-Colleen.Shannon.by.Stuart.White.HQ.02.th.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g292/JimmyOgraphy/ColleenGreen.jpg

oh & the Chiefs vs Spurs game is on

Was at Eighties last week Saturday and it was amazing. Gareth Cliff (urgh!)was the DJ and he was hyping up Colleen Shannon's guest star quite a lot. They also had an AMAZING underwear show with GORGEOUS models (pity you weren't here DB; I would have loved to see you pass out at seeing them. LOL!)

Commonwealth visit to KZN

By Sibusiso Mboto

A 54-member delegation from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association's Africa Region would make a whistle-stop visit to KwaZulu-Natal, the Speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature, Willies Mchunu, said on Thursday.

The delegation would be en route to the week-long 38th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Africa Region Conference in Cape Town where countries including Nigeria, Ghana and Botswana would share their experiences of governance.

Mchunu said the purpose of the stop in the province was the promotion of knowledge and education about the constitutional, economic, social and cultural systems in KZN.

The delegates will visit sites, including the Inanda Heritage Route, KwaMuhle Museum and the Cato Manor Informal Settlement.

The association was formed in 1911 as the Empire Parliamentary Association.

It is an association of Commonwealth parliamentarians united by community of interest, respect for the rule of law and human rights and freedoms, and the pursuit of the positive ideals of parliamentary democracy.

Boys I'm back from Durban and I must say that those Durbanites who never used People Mover deserve to be SHOT! This is the best EVER public transport that I have used in our country. Friendly staff, drivers and security guys, they help you with anything even if its not related to the busses. Securities are at every bus stop. The unfortunate part is that I lost, IT WAS NOT STOLEN, my usb cable. I got the busses pictures, nice and I mean very nice pictures.

Ushaka Marine and Gateway are wonders. The Point is the a killer. All I can say is that my trip to Durbs was a WOW. I'm planning to go back with my family soon, thanks again to all the policeman and woman, the security companies and the Metro Police for being present at all times.

I will post pictures as soon as I get another usb cable. The street vendors are the ones that spoils other parts of the city and the Durban Metro need to lure more investors to the city centre to renovate old buildings. There are plenty of buildings under renovations but more have got to be done to accelarate the process.

All in all I say Durban is improving and I wouldn't mind to go back theremore than once a year. By the way we used all modes of public transport, inclusive of the taxis, and we never experienced any hiccups.

^^Glad you enjoyed your stay Pule, did you manage to go to Florida road then?

Was at Eighties last week Saturday and it was amazing. Gareth Cliff (urgh!)was the DJ and he was hyping up Colleen Shannon's guest star quite a lot. They also had an AMAZING underwear show with GORGEOUS models (pity you weren't here DB; I would have loved to see you pass out at seeing them. LOL!)

I dont like Gareth Spliff live, but with the models Im sure I would have been distracting me :D

Didnt manage to go on Saturday, but I heard her gig was off the hook! She is not only stunningly blessed with good looks, but she can also mix the decks pretty well! Im bummed I couldnt go, but hope theres a next time.

Alot of fires happening in Durbs, on my way to work I check CR Swat had a flat on fire, must have been on the 12th to 15th floor.

Will rate payers foot the R150m uShaka bill?

July 23 2007 at 10:05AM

By Matthew Savides

The eThekwini Municipality is embarking on a "recovery plan" for the uShaka Marine World which could see ratepayers forking out almost R150-million more to bail out the facility, which has failed to make a profit since opening in April 2004.

Since opening, the municipality has already bailed out the theme park to the tune of R147-million, and it is likely that it will have to do so again by writing off debt and paying off its loans.

According to a report to be considered at the municipality's executive committee meeting tomorrow, the theme park "has not made any profits after financing costs and depreciation and has relied on its majority shareholder, the eThekwini Municipality, for funding to sustain its operations".





The report was compiled by the office of the deputy city manager: Treasury cluster and contains details of the recovery plan.

The first suggestion in the plan is that the municipality repays about R150-million in loans to Citibank and the Development Bank of Southern Africa. In return, the municipality's stake in the park would increase by an equal amount.

The plan also suggests allocating R19-million to the non-profit South African Association for Marine Biological Research, which is based at the park, for the 2007/2008 year, increasing to R24-million by 2011. Part of the loss incurred by the theme park was attributed to funding the research association.

The final suggestion is that the municipality write off the R147-million owed to it by uShaka because the theme park is "unable to service" the loan.

The report indicates that full provision has been made for the "irrecoverability" of the amount.

However, the executive committee is expected to only consider paying off the R150-million in loans and that a grant-in-aid of R19-million be awarded to the research association.

Ethekwini DA caucus leader John Steenhuisen said he was concerned, especially at the suggestion to write off the R147-million loan owed to the municipality.

"We believe there are not enough options currently on the table and, in particular, we would like to interrogate some modelling around the options of private investors or purchasers of the theme park," he said.

Steenhuisen added that he was extremely reluctant to authorise the writing-off of the debt without a full set of facts presented, because the decision "will have huge implications for the city going forward".

However, Municipal Manager Michael Sutcliffe said the label of a "recovery plan", as contained in the report, was "silly" in that it was "all about balancing the municipality's books".

The large amounts being paid to service the interest on the loans - which the report cites as being 48 percent of the park's total expenses - would be significantly reduced if the municipality paid off the loans.

He said that other municipal assets, like the International Convention Centre and the Moses Mabhida Soccer Stadium, were reflected on the balance sheet as totally owned by the municipality. uShaka was different in that loans had been taken to fund it.

The theme park, therefore, always appeared to be operating at a loss although, from a retail perspective, it made more profit than the ICC.

He said it was the perfect time to pay off the loan and look at the finances of the theme park in the proper context.

matthew.savides@inl.co.za

Will rate payers foot the R150m uShaka bill?

July 23 2007 at 10:05AM

By Matthew Savides

The eThekwini Municipality is embarking on a "recovery plan" for the uShaka Marine World which could see ratepayers forking out almost R150-million more to bail out the facility, which has failed to make a profit since opening in April 2004.

Since opening, the municipality has already bailed out the theme park to the tune of R147-million, and it is likely that it will have to do so again by writing off debt and paying off its loans.

According to a report to be considered at the municipality's executive committee meeting tomorrow, the theme park "has not made any profits after financing costs and depreciation and has relied on its majority shareholder, the eThekwini Municipality, for funding to sustain its operations".





The report was compiled by the office of the deputy city manager: Treasury cluster and contains details of the recovery plan.

The first suggestion in the plan is that the municipality repays about R150-million in loans to Citibank and the Development Bank of Southern Africa. In return, the municipality's stake in the park would increase by an equal amount.

The plan also suggests allocating R19-million to the non-profit South African Association for Marine Biological Research, which is based at the park, for the 2007/2008 year, increasing to R24-million by 2011. Part of the loss incurred by the theme park was attributed to funding the research association.

The final suggestion is that the municipality write off the R147-million owed to it by uShaka because the theme park is "unable to service" the loan.

The report indicates that full provision has been made for the "irrecoverability" of the amount.

However, the executive committee is expected to only consider paying off the R150-million in loans and that a grant-in-aid of R19-million be awarded to the research association.

Ethekwini DA caucus leader John Steenhuisen said he was concerned, especially at the suggestion to write off the R147-million loan owed to the municipality.

"We believe there are not enough options currently on the table and, in particular, we would like to interrogate some modelling around the options of private investors or purchasers of the theme park," he said.

Steenhuisen added that he was extremely reluctant to authorise the writing-off of the debt without a full set of facts presented, because the decision "will have huge implications for the city going forward".

However, Municipal Manager Michael Sutcliffe said the label of a "recovery plan", as contained in the report, was "silly" in that it was "all about balancing the municipality's books".

The large amounts being paid to service the interest on the loans - which the report cites as being 48 percent of the park's total expenses - would be significantly reduced if the municipality paid off the loans.

He said that other municipal assets, like the International Convention Centre and the Moses Mabhida Soccer Stadium, were reflected on the balance sheet as totally owned by the municipality. uShaka was different in that loans had been taken to fund it.

The theme park, therefore, always appeared to be operating at a loss although, from a retail perspective, it made more profit than the ICC.

He said it was the perfect time to pay off the loan and look at the finances of the theme park in the proper context.

matthew.savides@inl.co.za

So this place is not a success?

So this place is not a success?

People will differ in what they define a success. For some it is merely the venture turning a profit, for others it is far broader. If it were not for uShaka the rest of the point land would not nearly be as attractive today, nor would the R4 billion in committed investments in the area taken place. ushaka draws people to the area and normally destinations such as these take many many years to turn significant profits. Disneyland in Paris took over 10 years, the Two Oceans Aquarium took 6 years. The main reason for them was to attract people to an area and add value to the tourist product that inturn creates more awareness of other attractions.

In my mind, if ushaka is valued on the brand enhancement it has provided the city of Durban in terms of word of mouth exposure, international coverage and incredible experiences for conference delegates which in turn create more confering opportunities then it has more than done its job and completely paid for itself.

However if you like to see success in instant profit and that alone, then no it has not been an instant financial success. But ushaka is so much more to the city than that.

I agree with what you say Mikey. uShaka has done great things for Durban, and it's never easy for a theme park to make a profit. Gold Reef has struggled in the past, and Ratanga unfortunately failed. Taxpayers should bail uShaka out because it's an icon for Durban. It will pay off for the city eventually.

oh and Pule, i'm really glad you had a great time down here. Besides the soccer did you get up to much? and did you get down to the Zulu Jazz lounge?

Did you guys read the plans in the Sunday tribune regarding Durban emulating part sof its sister city of New Orleans (i'm sure they are refering to it before katrina). They are proposing in the point and florida road to use the New Orleans method of closing off streets and making them public pedestrian areas after 5/6pm. That would do great things for certain sections of florida road.

They also stated that the city plans to still immplement the tram system and that the present people mover system is but phase 1 of a comprehensive inner city public routing system.

People will differ in what they define a success. For some it is merely the venture turning a profit, for others it is far broader. If it were not for uShaka the rest of the point land would not nearly be as attractive today, nor would the R4 billion in committed investments in the area taken place. ushaka draws people to the area and normally destinations such as these take many many years to turn significant profits. Disneyland in Paris took over 10 years, the Two Oceans Aquarium took 6 years. The main reason for them was to attract people to an area and add value to the tourist product that inturn creates more awareness of other attractions.

In my mind, if ushaka is valued on the brand enhancement it has provided the city of Durban in terms of word of mouth exposure, international coverage and incredible experiences for conference delegates which in turn create more confering opportunities then it has more than done its job and completely paid for itself.

However if you like to see success in instant profit and that alone, then no it has not been an instant financial success. But ushaka is so much more to the city than that.

def true. same with the cticc. major headlines a year ago about its "loss". then theres the massive contribution it makes to GDP, the premier venue for international meetings in africa. 1 in every 4 international meeting in africa takes place there. so numbers only tell one part of the story.

I agree with what you say Mikey. uShaka has done great things for Durban, and it's never easy for a theme park to make a profit. Gold Reef has struggled in the past, and Ratanga unfortunately failed. Taxpayers should bail uShaka out because it's an icon for Durban. It will pay off for the city eventually.

Ratanga haha. seems like ages ago that it was opened. but then again maybe it was the spark to set off century city and its developments.

def true. same with the cticc. major headlines a year ago about its "loss". then theres the massive contribution it makes to GDP, the premier venue for international meetings in africa. 1 in every 4 international meeting in africa takes place there. so numbers only tell one part of the story.

I think the CTICC maybe a different ball game. According to my knowledge its owned or run by RAI, as such making a profit is far more important than added benefits to the city. If it was owned by the City of Cape Town like the ICC Durban is owned by the city, then a loss could be somewhat more acceptable as the city may be utilising it to fullfil a specific strategy. But if it is semi private then a loss is worrying in that RAI would not want to lose money.

privately operated but def a large public stake in the cticc.

Yes Mike, I did read that article in the Tribune, very exciting to read what council does have instore for the City, prob our trams will be monorails, because Im not sure if our roads are broad enough to accomodate trams & cars, plus I dont think it would be safe, given the fact that taxi's could use the tram lanes to speed through traffic :crazy:

But yeh, the idea is good, of closing of street at certain times for entertainment, they did that as well in Malaysia, Bangkok & Phuket & it pays off big time, giving the areas a nice vibe & creates a very nice atmosphere.

Saw that article and think it's a great idea. Parking in the surrounding streets will become a major problem though.

US$100m coatings plant for KZN

24 July 2007

Mauritius-based Safal Investments, which owns steel-coating facilities in eastern and southern Africa, plans to build a US$100-million plant near Durban.

Business Day reports this week that the plant, to be built in Cato Ridge, is the company’s third investment in the country and will create about 300 jobs for the members of the local community.

Safal South Africa chief executive Ronnie Graham told Business Day that the Cato Ridge plant would produce 150 000 tons of coated steel a year in the first three to four years.

"Strategically, it is a good area because of its proximity to the Durban port, which we believe is still the best for export and import. It is also on the main railway line between Johannesburg and Durban," he told Business Day.

The company will buy steel either locally from Mittal Steel, or import it from Japan and India, and then export the finished product to other parts of Africa.

Graham told Engineering news earlier this month that construction on the plant would begin as soon as an environmental impact assessment was completed, possibly by October this year, and that the International Finance Corporation and the Industrial Development Corporation had expressed an interest in the project.

Graham also Business Day that Safal was negotiating with four unnamed black economic empowerment companies, as they wanted to sell a 30% stake in the project to an empowerment partner.

The company's other two investments include a Safrintra steel roof company, which has factories in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth, as well as a steel reinforcing company.

SouthAfrica.info reporter

http://www.southafrica.info/doing_business/investment/safal-240707.htm

Todays Mercury front page doesnt look so good.

thats a fucking big wave, saw it in sky thismoring. Who is surfing it?

^^lol, not the wave, thats a the Red Bull big wave Africa, Im talking about the Airport story.

The larnies are starting to complain, they going to put a plea in to hold construction of KSIA. They say that the tests for noise levels conducted by the EIA are inaccurate.

I would have posted the article but I dont have a password. :gaah: