Reshaping KZN's North Coast: Dubai-based developer plans R20bn additional investment in Zimbali

The international group IFA Hotels & Resorts (IFAHR) is planning to invest another R20-billion in the Ballito area on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast over the next few decades.

An envisaged new estate and marina will add to its Zimbali development node which already features the Zimbali Coastal Resort and ongoing expansion of the Zimbali Lakes Resort, a family residential and leisure estate located about 45 kms north of Durban.

Zimbali Lakes features an 18-hole golf course designed by Ernie Els.

The new estate will offer buyers a rural-style environment, with space to accommodate their own farm animals like chickens and horses.

The marina is envisioned as 'a world-class waterside destination aligned with national marine-economic objectives'. The precinct would integrate leisure, tourism, hospitality, fishing, and commercial activity.

Zimbali Vision 2030 alsoincludes a breakwater structure that could transform an unsafe stretch of coastline into a swimmable, family-friendly shoreline.

Neil Cocker, vice president of Operations at Zimbali Lakes Resort, says that as a resident himself, he's seen Ballito grow from a small town on the seaside to a bustling centre offering all the desired amenities such as shopping centres and private schools in the area.

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He also points out the benefits of the KZN coast over the hugely popular Western Cape - "The weather there can be conflicting at times, and we've got good weather pretty much 12 months of the year, an ocean you can actually swim in and an environment which is great for young families and people looking for a different lifestyle."

Cocker also highlights that fallingunder the KwaDukuza Local Municipality, they don't have to deal with the infrastructure problems experienced in many of the countries struggling municipalities.

For more detail, listen to the conversation in the interview audio at the top of the article