Whatshot
Ushaka Marine World To Be Revamped
Ushaka Marine World To Be Revamped
Much needed upgrades will be undertaken to uShaka Marine World to ensure it continues to provide visitors with the high standards expected of a theme park. A feasibility study will also be undertaken to investigate the viability of an internationally branded expanded/decentralised theme park destination development within the Point Waterfront Development. This follows the tabling of a report at an Executive Committee meeting held today, 22 October.
The report, initially tabled at the Economic Development and Planning Committee meeting, authorised for R16 million be spent on the project. This includes R10 million for the rehabilitation of uShaka and R6 million for the feasibility study.
The report stated that the funds were necessary to improve the theme park and its business operations in order to create a world-class entertainment destination. It stated that there was a need to invest in key attractions that will grow footfall and result in financial sustainability and employment creation.
Deputy City Manager of Economic Development and Planning Phillip Sithole said uShaka Marine World was established as a catalyst for the Point area precinct. He said it was necessary to rehabilitate the park while also creating new experiences for visitors.
"The allocated amount for the feasibility study is a benchmark for what other entertainment centres undertake for similar studies," he said.
Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Sipho Kaunda said the allocated amount for the study was a block sum and was not the actual cost of the study which could be less than the allocated amount. He said new attractions to the theme park would bring additional benefits.
"We need to undertake this study to ensure that we are able to compete with other international attractions," he said.
EThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda said he wanted timeframes of when the feasibility study would be done as well as turnaround plans for the theme park regarding new attractions and increasing the number of visitors.
Regarding reports about banning the media from Executive Committee meetings, Mayor Kaunda reassured the media that under no circumstances will the City bar it from attending any of its meetings. He said the media will remain an indispensable stakeholder to the City to aggressively advance the agenda of development to the benefit of residents.

