The proposed development at the former Durban Funworld site is expected to create about 1 400 jobs and form part of more than R2 billion in beachfront investment.
Durban’s beachfront is set for a major facelift, with plans for a new amusement park at the former Durban Funworld site advancing following funding approval for the R980 million development.
In a statement released today, the eThekwini Municipality said the project was among the key tourism infrastructure developments supported by the National Department of Tourism. The development will form part of the central beach precinct and is planned under a long-term development lease with the municipality. It aims to restore a permanent, ride-based attraction to Durban’s beachfront following Funworld’s closure.
“With funding approved, the development has completed its design stage, and technical planning work is under way,” the municipality said.
Statutory development processes are expected to follow and continue until the end of the first quarter of 2027, after which construction is expected to begin.
The municipality said the funding approval was a critical milestone towards construction, demonstrating institutional confidence in the project and strengthening alignment between national government, the development finance sector and the city.
The development is expected to create approximately 1 400 jobs during construction and operations, with local small businesses set to form part of the park’s supply chain. The city described the amusement park as the entertainment centrepiece of more than R2 billion in investment already spent or committed to Durban’s beachfront.
Plans include several world-class rides, an extended reality and digital zone, a curated retail offering and an upgraded amphitheatre designed to host events.
“The combination of indoor and outdoor attractions is intended to allow the park to operate throughout the year, including during wet weather and in the evenings. The project is expected to become a major addition to Durban’s tourism offering, bringing a permanent amusement attraction back to the beachfront,” the city said.
