INDUSTRY FOCUS for a node , such as uMhlanga Rocks , where various businesses will carry similar features that identify them as parts of the collective node and its specific brand . The look and feel of the experience and product they want to offer is consistent , down to the tenant mix and type of events to be held in public places .
INDUSTRY FOCUS for a node , such as uMhlanga Rocks , where various businesses will carry similar features that identify them as parts of the collective node and its specific brand . The look and feel of the experience and product they want to offer is consistent , down to the tenant mix and type of events to be held in public places .
Before drilling down into the nuts and bolts of how the UIP model operates , it ’ s worth noting that the model is now being replicated in Ballito , and notably Florida Road in Morningside , Durban . Urban MGT also manages greenfield precincts in the form of Bridge City , Cornubia Industrial and Business Estate , Riverhorse Valley Business Estate and most recently Sibaya . The precinct management entity is termed a management association and works very much like a UIP , except that it has a stronger influence on aesthetics and development controls .
Once considered one of Durban ’ s hottest night spots , Florida Road had also fallen prey to the cycle of urban decay , with unregulated car guards and a growing number of dangerous criminal incidents threatening to make a ghost town of one of the city ’ s landmarks . Thanks to the combined efforts of concerned community members , business owners , residents and the municipality , Florida Road has once again become a hive of activity , with its sidewalk cafes , famous restaurants and historic architecture . “ Aside from cleaning up the neighbourhood aesthetically , security is obviously a major consideration . In addition to eradicating illicit car guarding and begging , we try to introduce opportunities where employment opportunities are offered instead ,” adds Wright .
So what is Urban MGT ’ s role in the UIP model ? Wright explains that the company is driven by the desire to create open , accessible spaces for the public to enjoy . A UIP is an all-inclusive urban project encouraging diversity and engagement . “ Our organisation drives and manages the process : we help the community members establish a non-profit organisation run by a non-remunerated board . Having a credible entity allows you to raise additional funding from property owners because they ’ re confident that it ’ s going to be spent where it should be , that the process will be transparent and that the board will be held accountable .”
Wright sees tackling the northern coast and Florida Road as just the beginning . “ We ’ ve got to build the urban renewal momentum in Durban , starting on the beachfront , which has incredible potential , and then beginning to push back