The new R1.3-billion luxurious Umhlanga Arch development project in Durban is now open for business. The food court is now fully effective, and the four-star Hilton Garden Inn Hotel is set to start running in November.
The 45,000m2 development is made up of commercial office space formed in the shape of an iconic glass arch located in the upmarket area of Umhlanga Ridge, a 203-room internationally acclaimed Hilton Hotel, 170 residential apartments in a 32-storey tower block and upmarket retail stores and restaurants, all of which are underpinned by an SMG dealership for BMW SA.
Marc Rosenberg, director of the private investment company The Multiply Group said the Umhlanga Arch would be centred around experiences. “When we were conceptualising the design, we saw the ‘live, work, play’ model was one that is working exceptionally well. We found that wherever people go in the world, they are looking for convenience. It was important for us to do something that would be very impactful,” he said.
“We picked some of the best chefs and independent operators in our city, who don’t necessarily have the means and capabilities to invest in their own restaurants. We have invested for them so they can use the space and platform to grow franchises and their own businesses.”- he added
Speaking during a visit to the development, MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, said more iconic designer buildings such as the Arch were needed to attract visitors to the city of Durban.
Main Image: Engineering News
