Scottburgh and Hibberdene in the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) have been confirmed as possible sites designated for small harbour development along the KZN coastline.
Altogether eight other sites are included in the same prospective Tier 2 development.
The initiative forms part of a wider government strategy to bolster local economies, create employment opportunities and enhance fisheries infrastructure.
Speaking at an investment conference in Scottburgh, Sihle Zikalala, deputy minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, said plans are advancing for the construction of a small harbour within the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality.
The project is expected to include a boat launching facility and fisheries infrastructure with an estimated investment close to R1 billion. It could create thousands of jobs during and after construction.
Hibberdene and Scottburgh feature prominently among the selected Tier 2 candidate sites alongside other coastal locations such as Port Edward, Tinley Manor and Margate.
These sites are currently undergoing detailed site-specific precinct planning and environmental impact assessments as part of the preliminary development phase.
Hibberdene is set to benefit from a major small craft harbour and eco-estate development including residential components. It is expected to bring significant investment and employment to the area.
The environmental impact assessment for the harbour project in Hibberdene has been completed, signalling progress in the approval process.
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality has expressed strong support for small-craft harbour developments, recognising their potential to stimulate maritime tourism and economic growth along the South Coast. Similar projects are also underway in neighbouring Port Shepstone, further underscoring the region’s commitment to coastal infrastructure enhancement.
This ambitious programme reflects government’s broader vision to revitalise the KZN coastline through sustainable maritime infrastructure, fostering economic resilience and community development.
News of the Tier 2 development follows after an announcement earlier this week that the World Bank has granted South Africa a US$1.5 billion loan towards infrastructure development (see the related post on 11 June).
