The Durban Chamber of Commerce has expressed its commitment to working closely with various levels of government to rejuvenate the city’s economy by attracting businesses back to Durban.

In a significant step toward urban regeneration, the eThekwini Municipality and the Department of Public Works recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to repurpose over 50 abandoned and derelict buildings, predominantly concentrated in the Durban Point area.

Durban Chamber President Prasheen Maharaj has voiced support for the initiative, which aims to transform neglected structures into productive assets, benefiting the economy and local communities alike.

Maharaj emphasized that restoring these buildings aligns with broader urban development and socio-economic goals and called for robust private-sector collaboration to bring these visions to fruition.

“We believe we can restore and repurpose abandoned buildings and ensure that they comply with city regulations.

“This collaboration with the private sector supports sustainable urban regeneration and fosters socio-economic growth,” Maharaj stated, signaling the Chamber’s readiness to collaborate in ways that attract investment and stabilize neighborhoods suffering from long-term neglect.

Former eThekwini municipal manager Mike Sutcliffe also welcomed the rehabilitation efforts, noting the profound social benefits that such developments could yield.

Beyond economic gains, repurposing these structures offers a lifeline to vulnerable populations, particularly the homeless and victims of gender-based violence, who often lack safe and stable shelter.

“There are big investments coming into the city, and significant developments are underway.

“Some of these will support vulnerable groups, including homeless individuals and women affected by gender-based violence, who are in need of shelter,” Sutcliffe explained, highlighting the dual impact on economic growth and social support.

This revitalization effort follows a trend of increasing investments in Durban’s infrastructure, with projections indicating a surge in urban development over the next three years.

The plan underscores Durban’s ambition to create a safer, more inclusive environment that appeals to both business and community interests, transforming neglected spaces into vibrant hubs of opportunity and resilience.

As the MoU unfolds into concrete action, Durban’s strategic partnership with both government and private stakeholders sets a promising course for urban renewal and a more prosperous future.