Noteworthy construction developments In Kwazulu-Natal

In KwaZulu-Natal, there have been several noteworthy construction developments in recent months. One of the significant projects is the construction of the Cato Ridge Logistics Hub, a multi-billion-rand initiative aimed at boosting economic growth and job creation in the region. The hub is expected to provide state-of-the-art logistics facilities to support the transportation and distribution of goods in and around KwaZulu-Natal.  

There were many naysayers who claimed that the project did not make economic sense as it was either too far or too close to Durban. However, initial trials of locomotives between Cato Ridge and Durban have proved to be successful. The supply of locomotives is currently being addressed to ensure an increase in operations. As volumes increase, the services and terminal space will increase to accommodate growth.

The Westown development is a mixed-use property and lifestyle development off the N3 between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. It is an active construction site with the retail hub of Westown Square with plans to open by Easter 2025. On 19 March 2024 the Westown development team and Fundamentum Property Group hosted more than 40 residential, commercial and industrial brokers and agents at the Westown construction site.

While the construction focus is firmly on the high-street retail experience of Westown Square, which is opening in March 2025, Westown is the new City of the West that will roll out over the next 5 to 10 years generating some R15 billion in investment both in infrastructure and top structures. These top structures take the form of 100 hectares of interconnected precincts, spaces, and experiences that include:

• Warehousing and logistics hubs
• Commercial and mixed-use spaces
• Motor showroom, office and auto-related retail and services
• Residential development
• A hospital and medical facilities

As of 15 March 2024, the Kassier Road Phase 1B bypass road between the M13 and N3 is open.

Another ongoing project in the region is the construction of the Cornubia Integrated Human Settlement development in Durban. This project aims to provide affordable housing options for residents while also incorporating commercial and retail spaces to create a vibrant mixed-use community.

Additionally, there have been reports of infrastructure upgrades in KwaZulu-Natal, including the construction of new roads, bridges and public transportation facilities to improve connectivity and ease traffic congestion in urban areas. These infrastructure projects are crucial for supporting economic development and enhancing the quality of life for residents in the region.

The upgrades to the N2 and N3 in KwaZulu-Natal form part of the National Government’s key strategic Integrated Projects SIP2. The upgrade of the N2 will focus on a 55 km stretch from Lovu River on the South Coast to Umdloti on the North Coast. The N3 upgrade will focus on the 80 km section form Durban to Pietermaritzburg. In line with SANRAL’s commitment to the economic development of black businesses, at least 30% of the contract value of these contracts will be subcontracted to small, medium and micro enterprises.

According to the SANRAL Projects Plan for the Eastern Region (KZN) there are 42 projects in the planning stage, 40 in design, 27 in construction, 7 recently completed, 32 in Tender-design and 17 in Tender-construction stage, giving a total of 165 projects.

The estimated value of the N2 upgrade is R19 billion with 11 work packages with 7 250 full- time equivalent jobs.  The estimated value of the N3 upgrade is R33 billion with 16 work packages equating to 15 000 full time equivalent jobs.

Other SANRAL flagship projects in KZN include:

• N2 Mtamvuna River to Hiberdene – R9 billion
• N2 Empangeni to Mpummalanga – R40 billion

Overall, the construction sector in KwaZulu-Natal remains a key driver of growth and development, with various projects underway to enhance infrastructure, provide essential services and create opportunities for local communities. The region continues to see investments in both public and private construction projects aimed at improving the quality of life and spurring economic growth.

Against the backdrop of the envisaged flow of construction activities, Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal proudly positions itself as the voice of the KZN construction industry. The Association actively lobbies government, suppliers and key stakeholders in the interests of the sector. Members enjoy contractual and legal support, together with health and safety advice and quality training interventions.

Victor Smith

Membership Manager