Second port a convincing option for old Durban airport

Transnet is actively lobbying government for the premises of the old Durban Airport as a second port for Durban. According to Pumi Motsoahae, a Transnet planning specialist, feasibility studies and other research around the use of the land have been completed and a proposal has been handed in to relevant authorities. “We are proposing that the old airport site be converted into a second port for Durban. It will not be a difficult transition and by providing basic port infrastructure we can develop a facility that will ease a lot of pressure on the Durban port,” said Motsoahae. Government earlier this year appointed a task team to look at what the best option would be for the land use of the old airport, which is considered prime property. Various proposals from private companies have been received to buy the land. This includes one from Comair who wanted to operate its own airport from the site. “We know there are contenders for the land, but we believe that Transnet has developed a clear and structured proposal. We are putting in major efforts to try to secure this land and to convince government that a second port is the way for the future.” Motsoahae said plans for the port would include a car terminal as well as a 16-berth container terminal.