Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has broken ground on the R147 million Latimer’s Landing project at the Port of East London.
TNPA said on Tuesday that the revitalisation of the quay structure marked a significant step in the port’s waterfront development, which was crucial for boosting tourism and economic growth.
“The structure is a critical port infrastructure asset, which was originally designed for marine operational use but has over the years transitioned into a public recreational area essential for local tourism activities,” the ports authority said.
“The construction of this new quay structure bolsters the transformation of the Latimer’s Landing waterfront development within the Port of East London. This facility is earmarked to advance development of various business operations, including restaurants, leisure outlets and tourism centres, as well as related activities that will draw steady traffic into the precinct.”
TNPA said the development supported its strategic goal of optimising its real estate portfolio by attracting new ventures while fostering private-sector participation and opportunities to stimulate economic growth.
TNPA Acting Chief Executive Phyllis Difeto said the construction milestone came at a time when the business was focused on growing and stabilising through Transnet’s Reinvent for Growth Strategy.
“This development charts a new course for the Eastern Cape economy by supporting value-adding industries. The investment aligns with the positioning of the port for the tourism sector, a TNPA strategic objective aimed at expanding the port's service offering by integrating with the leisure market.”
The East London community is already realising economic benefits from this project, with 44 jobs already created this month. The project is expected to create 55 jobs during the construction phase. The appointed contractor for the project, Steffanuti Stocks, has committed to collaborating with local small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to unlock additional business opportunities. The project is expected to be completed in April 2027.
