Durban - eThekwini Municipality has said that the start of the upgrade to Kassier Road in Shongweni marks the beginning of the Westown Square development in the outer west region.
In a statement on Monday, the city said the infrastructure upgrades included two new bridges and a total upgrade of the existing two-lane Kassier Road across the M13 and N3 into four lanes with a centre median.
“A new pedestrian bridge will also be added over the N3 along with a new loop ramp and bridge over Kassier Road, providing direct access into Westown,” said the city.
According to the city, the Westown development is a catalytic project that will be the new economic hub of Durban’s outer west.
“It is anticipated to generate R15 billion in new investment over the next 10 to 15 years. This will create employment for the local community,” said the city.
It has previously been reported that the multibillion-rand project by property development group, Fundamentum is set to change the face of the west region and bring thousands of investments to the area.
According to eThekwini mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, the Shongweni development is in line with the city’s radical socio-economic transformation programme.
Speaking at the launch of the Westown phase held in Shongweni in August, Kaunda said about 30 000 jobs would be created once the Shongweni Urban Development is complete.
“R200 million will be allocated to local suppliers, and 8 000 jobs will be created. Once all the phases have been completed, we are anticipating that 30 000 job opportunities will be created. The launch of this development is a clear indication that attracting foreign direct investment in the city remains a key priority,” he said.
