More than R70 million in private investment has been secured for the redevelopment of 137 Lower Marine Parade on Durban’s Golden Mile, with total investment expected to approach R100 million once tenant fit-outs are completed.
The Golden Mile is a paved walkway stretch of beachfront, sandy coastline, and paved promenade in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
The eThekwini Municipality said preferred bidder Imvusa (Pty) Ltd has secured funding for the redevelopment, which is expected to more than double the commercial space at the site from 1,700 square metres to 4,000 square metres.
“Construction is set to commence in January 2027, following the completion of statutory planning processes and the signing of leases,” the municipality said in a statement.
The municipality said signed leases are in place with several food and hospitality brands, including Steers, Fishaways, Debonairs Pizza, Wimpy, Milky Lane, Nonna’s Riviera, and Perere by Gushima.
Nonna’s Riviera will make its Durban debut as part of the development, expanding its presence beyond Johannesburg.
“The redevelopment will double permanent positions at the site from 85 to approximately 170, with Nonna’s Riviera accounting for 33 jobs. An additional 80 jobs will be created during construction,” the municipality said.
The project comes amid sustained growth along the beachfront promenade, which recorded 17.45 million pedestrian movements in 2025, a 20% single-year increase. A further 11.25 million pedestrian movements were recorded between January and September 2026.
Construction was rescheduled from June 2026 to conclude legal proceedings relating to vacant possession.
“Remaining occupants must vacate by 15 January 2027, with site handover taking place immediately after. The development aims to open for trading during the 2027/28 festive season,” the municipality said. – SAnews.gov.za
