Durban - Durban’s grungy “back of beach” image is slowly being peeled away – with the city’s new Rivertown complex making its name as the newest and trendiest spot.
Just a block from the revamped Durban beachfront lies Rivertown, so called because of the canal that runs beneath John Milne Road.
A portion of the canal cover has been lifted (as part of an urban rejuvenation project initiated during the international architecture conference the city recently held) to create a mini river in the middle of the road.
The area, described as industrial with large warehouses and small factories, is not exactly a swanky Florida Road-type setup, but it’s steadily drawing Durbanites to this new creative spot.
Located at the old beer hall built in 1914, it has changed over the years to house various businesses. While the facility will only be open during festivals and events, the buzz right now is a hot spot for arts and culture.
Guy Wood, organiser of the Rivertown heritage festival, with Gabriella Peppas and David Gouldie, said while the precinct kicked off during the International Architecture Conference things were now heating up as there were a series of festivals planned to draw people to the area.
This past week, a local craft beer cocktail evening was held.
Festivals such as these, said Wood, would draw more people to the area, it was hoped.
“We are ideally positioned in Durban, and while some people still think this is a no-go area, we are hopefully changing that perception, to draw people back to the city centre and see the work that’s going into making this city a great city,” said Wood.
The look of the place is very industrial, with the walls proudly showing off the peeling paint, with crates that double as tables and chairs.
“We want people to move around in this space, we are one street back from the beachfront, we are right near the ICC, we have the popular Cool Runnings also around the corner, so wouldn’t it be nice to have people come here in the evenings and move between the different places, have fun, and energise the area?” he said.
The area also incorporates the Morning Trade market, which operates each Sunday.
No longer do Durbanites have to schlep far out for the organic goodies and speciality cakes – they can be found right in town.
Wood said they had also started “the urban picnic” which would be happening tomorrow.
Future urban picnics are expected to be held during festivals and events.
“People will be able to buy their goodies at the market and then find a spot in the area, sit on one of the crates and relax, and enjoy being out in the city,” said Wood.
For more information and updates on the latest events and festivals, visit the Rivertown Beerhall Facebook page.
Independent on Saturday