Development plan prioritises towns
The Department of Rural Development and Land Reform last week released for public comment the draft NSDF, which outlines the priority areas targeted for inclusive economic growth and spatial transformatio
RICHARDS Bay has been listed among the national urban nodes and coastal corridors to be prioritised and strengthened under the National Spatial Development Framework (NSDF).
The Department of Rural Development and Land Reform last week released for public comment the draft NSDF, which outlines the priority areas targeted for inclusive economic growth and spatial transformation.
‘The coastal growth and development corridor along the eastern and southern coasts (N2) have strong interconnections between high value rural resource production, ecological resource regions, popular tourist destinations, comfortable climatic zones and urban nodes,’ the NSDF draft report states.
‘This corridor also provides opportunities for the consolidation of existing cities and the development of ‘new’ cities supported by well-developed multi-nodal infrastructure.
‘This requires that port and airport development be strengthened in support of inter-regional trade flows and efficiency, and small harbour development in support of the fishing, tourism and maritime economies at identified coastal locations.’
The N2 from Richards Bay to Pongola will, among others, receive development support under the National Movement and Connectivity Infrastructure System.
‘This will ensure adequate planning for and enable trade with a focus on SADC corridors, and improve cost effectiveness and efficiency at border and port facilities to handle greater international and regional trade flows.’
According to the draft report, proper road infrastructure on key routes will be prioritised.
Logistical hubs, airports, harbours and border posts must be maintained and expanded as and where necessary to keep pace with national economic growth and reduce delays at ports.
The draft NSDF has also earmarked Jozini and Ulundi for transformation into regional development anchor towns to encourage growth.
‘Priority regional development anchors were identified from a wide range of existing and emerging towns, identified as locations that could fulfil a regional function in support of national and regional development objectives.’
The draft report can be found on the Department of Rural Development website and written comments can be e-mailed to nsdf@drdlr.gov.za.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
