Tuesday, 02 August 2011

Naval Island takeover

In what will become a huge tourism catalyst, the City of uMhlathuze is in the process of negotiating the long term lease of Naval Island. Speaking on Saturday at the 50th anniversary of the Zululand Yacht Club, Mayor Elphas Mbatha said the prime island recreational facility - the venue for this week’s Dolosfees - would be permanently equipped with electricity, water and sanitation.‘This is part of our vision to change the focus from being a purely industrial City to becoming a tourist destination. ‘To accomplish this, it is necessary to develop Naval Island, the waterfront and the entire beach area,’ said Cllr Mbatha.‘In this regard, the Yacht Club can play an important role in ensuring that Richards Bay has the best facilities.’ The item proposing the lease of Naval Island from Propnet will be brought before Council tomorrow. Cllr Mbatha said progress would continue to build on the existing strong industrial base. ‘Our vision is to facilitate further development through a container terminal, which is one of the strategic objectives of the IDZ. ‘In this regard, we have already started discussions with the KZN Planning Commission and with Transnet. ‘Government clearly supports this area, as shown by the investment in the John Ross Highway and the IDZ.’

---