Green Hub Blue Lagoon

Description:

One of the jewels of Durban which has an internationally acclaimed coastline that could not be completed in time for the World Cup, the Blue Lagoon just north of Durban city, construction and development is expected to continue well into December.

Most of the work was done, but those that could not be finished is the new "Green Hub" building at Blue Lagoon, a popular recreational spot, as well as the planned restaurant and retail facilities along the newly revamped beachfront which will be completed by the end of August.

The Green Hub will operate as information and booking centre for nature-based tourism destinations and experiences in Durban and KZN.

The hub will also offer guided canoe trails on the uMngeni River Estuary and local guided walks.

Durban city had earlier said the cost of all the upgrades, including the new pathways, public toilets, parking areas, landscaping and the construction of the new Green Hub would be about R8-million.

The building incorporates a range of green technologies and will offer demonstrations and capacity building around simple "green" technologies such as solar and wind energy for homes, schools and offices, and water saving devices and systems.

The Green Hub is expected to open to the public by October, and it will be operated by the city as an interim arrangement until an outside operator is appointed.

Also on the cards depending on the availability of funding is the building of new designated braai (barbeque) areas during the course of this year. The remaining work in the public areas of Blue Lagoon, including the new car park and pathways, will be completed by the end of August.

New commercial opportunities along the be achfront would soon be put out to tender.

Durban city's vision is to have a mix of both retail and restaurants/food outlets along the beachfront serving the family market and promoting a healthy lifestyle. The retail part would be in the form of beach/surf/outdoor-related goods as well as possibly a bookstore, while the food offerings would range from fast food through to more formal dining opportunities.

There will also be looked at a larger mix in the type of food on offer so as to appeal to tourists and local residents alike,