AGRI-TOURISM FACILITY

The eThekwini Municipality had a vision to transform the KwaDabeka project area into a mixed-use agritourism development consisting of farming, nature conservation, recreation, ecotourism, and community Social services. Pursuit of this goal looked to address several issues, including environmental health, economic development, and social services.

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The development plan was developed in consultation with various stakeholders and experts and sought to build upon the existing activities as well as to introduce new activities in order to increase the site’s benefits to the surrounding community. The site already houses numerous activities, including subsistence farming and numerous social services, such as a feeding scheme, crèche, and community NGO. By investing in some upgrades to infrastructure, the capacity of these valuable community services could be enhanced.

 

The KwaDabeka site possesses natural beauty and environmental resources within a peri-urban context. The site has the potential of attracting local and international visitors both those wanting a peaceful retreat, away from the busy urban landscape as well as those looking to volunteer and learn about permaculture. The site development plan also includes potential income-generating activities, which in the long run could assist with an economically sustainable operation. While many of the proposed site activities exist solely for the service of the community, some activities with greater income-generating potential, will be required to provide funds for overall management of the site.

 

“Phase 1” of the project was to provide a feasibility study based on the following requirements:

• Urban plan for the entire site and surrounds.

• Proposed conversion of the existing Pump Station Building to accommodate a Community Centre and Go-Durban Facility. 

• Proposed conversion of the Rapid Sand Filtration Building to accommodate a Backpackers & Future Cooking School.

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Client: eThekwini Municipality - Economic Development Unit

 

Project Team:

Project Manager -  Helen Twigg (eThekwini Municipality)

Architects - i3LAB

Urban Designers - Mabune Consulting

Electrical - Isenzeko Engineering

Civil & Structural - BVI Consulting Engineers

Mechanical - Parsons & Lumsden

QS - Mani Industries

 

Project Cost: £1mil