Durban's Golden Mile gets R220 million investment

"The group's investment in this complex is a direct response to the substantial investment into the revival of the Durban beachfront promenade by the eThekwini Municipality, which has seen the destination being upgraded and we are proud to be a part of it," states Marcel von Aulock, Tsogo Sun's CEO.

Commenting on the investment, mayor of eThekwini James Nxumalo says, "We are delighted at the role the group is playing in adding to the renewed vibrancy of Durban. There is so much good news to be told about the renewal of the city - with corporates coming back to the city centre, the International Convention Centre's status as a leading convention centre in the country, the rescue of the iconic Durban Country Club and the location of the Moses Mabhida stadium all contributing to the revitalisation of the city. The merger of these two hotels - which are such significant landmarks on the Durban beachfront and which carry such historical stature- is of great significance to the positioning of the Durban beachfront, signalling the confidence of investors in the precinct."

First phase

The first phase of the project, which will be completed in time for the Tourism Indaba in May 2013, will consist of:

• Total refurbishment of the Maharani Tower, including the bedrooms, core infrastructure, the conference centre and public areas
  
• Substantial new food and beverage offerings within the Elangeni Tower
  
• Rework of the porte-cocheres, creating a sense of arrival and better access to the complex
  
• Renovation of the external building facades

The complex facilities include 734 stylish bedrooms; two well-equipped gyms; three swimming pools, with one heated pool; free Wi Fi connectivity; 17 meeting and conference rooms; two fully- equipped business centres; and eleven restaurants and bars offering a variety of a la carte and buffet meal options.

Next phases

Phase 2 will see the opening in the third quarter of 2013, of the Camelot Spa, which will feature five treatment rooms, a double treatment room with a hydrotherapy bath and a Himalayan salt room in the Elangeni Tower.

The historic Raffles area is being transformed into a multipurpose venue on top of the Maharani Tower available for conferences, launches, themed evenings and a myriad of other events with breath taking views.

The final phase will include a refurbishment of the Elangeni rooms and additional public areas and, once complete, the group would have invested R220 million.

"We have great confidence in Durban and a significant investment in its future and it is our belief that we have a responsibility to support the city to ensure that it achieves its full potential as the premier leisure and event city in South Africa - one that offers a rich playground of activities, hospitality and events. We believe that the positioning of the hotel complex, combined with quality offerings and service will breathe new energy, life and soul into the Durban beachfront. This development is directly in line with the group's vision to provide the greatest possible variety of quality hospitality, leisure, gaming and entertainment experiences at every one of our destinations," concludes von Aulock.

For more information, go to www.tsogosun.com.