Durban is reimagining its coastline with an ambitious new attraction designed to become a flagship destination for both local visitors and international travellers.
eThekwini Municipality/Facebook
According to Tourism Update, the eThekwini Municipality has confirmed plans for a large scale amusement and family entertainment park that will introduce modern rides, immersive digital experiences and upgraded public spaces along the beachfront.
The development will rise on the site of the former Funworld amusement park, which closed in 2023. Once completed, the new precinct is expected to deliver a vibrant mix of adrenaline driven attractions and accessible family entertainment. Planned highlights include a high speed Lightning Roller Coaster, the Disco 24 thrill ride, a vertical swing experience and an expansive virtual reality zone measuring approximately 1 500 square metres. The VR space will host more than 160 interactive games and international e sports style activations, offering weather proof entertainment throughout the year.
Durban based Masithu Consulting and Project Managers will lead the project. The company is fully black owned and brings extensive experience in complex infrastructure and commercial developments. The amusement attractions will be designed and engineered by established Italian firms known for their work on international theme parks and large scale entertainment destinations.
Beyond the rides themselves, the precinct will feature pedestrian walkways illuminated with contemporary lighting, elevated viewing decks overlooking the ocean and skyline, themed dining zones and relaxed leisure spaces. The park is intended to operate as a family friendly and alcohol free environment, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits from multi generational travellers.
Economic impact forms a central pillar of the development strategy. The project is expected to create approximately 900 construction jobs and more than 500 permanent operational roles across hospitality, maintenance, guest services and technical operations. These employment opportunities will contribute directly to the city’s broader economic recovery and tourism growth plans.
Once all regulatory approvals and commercial processes are finalised, construction is expected to begin, with an anticipated opening window in late 2027. The amusement park forms part of a wider beachfront regeneration programme that aims to strengthen Durban’s position as one of South Africa’s leading coastal destinations while modernising infrastructure and visitor experiences.
For travellers, the development promises a fresh reason to return to the Golden Mile. For the city, it represents a strategic investment in long term tourism resilience, job creation and urban renewal.
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