Qualms with artist’s rendering

THE Independent on Saturday article (December 2) about the R35 billion beachfront facelift, aka Point Waterfront Development, refers.

Unfortunately the Durban skyline will be changed forever and shadows will be cast over the area behind these monstrosities. But apart from that, the attention to detail in the artist’s impression is appalling – waves do not break along the harbour wall (in the background) as depicted – there is no fetch to generate such a wave; the waves depicted within Vetch’s beach area are equally unrealistic, in contrast to the waves at uShaka beach, which appear correct.

If the waves within the Vetch’s beach were like that, you would get erosion; speaking of which, the adherence to coastal setback lines is still lacking – the promenade and development are still located too close to the sea; there is an insufficient buffer. And trying to push out seaward and reclaim land is simply not a good idea – the erosion at Snake Park, Battery Beach and Country Club beaches are testimony to that.

The obsession to create parking under the promenade persists. This is an extremely unwise idea because this in an area with a high water table (think of the backflooded areas experienced in the old West Street, now Dr Pixley KaSeme Street, area near the beachfront).

eThekwini’s 50% share in this investment (how many ratepayers are aware of this fact?) would be better invested in a more responsible, lower impact development in this area and clean-up efforts in the metropolitan area.