It's part of a plan to lure tourists to the site even after the World Cup. Developers are also hoping to attract retailers to the area for a proposed shopping complex. The economic element will be crucial to the city, where stadium maintenance expenses are estimated to total 28 billion Rand (about $2.9 billion US) over the next 50 years.
The cable car, which is to be delivered within weeks, will scale the northern arch, while an "adventure walk" consisting of 550 steps leading to a viewing platform at the top of the arch will be constructed on the southern arch, Durban's strategic project unit head, Julie-May Ellingson, said.
News of the cable car delivery comes after it was announced last year that the city's budget constraints may scupper its ambitious plans, including a bungee rope swing, cable car and adventure walk.
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Speaking at a media tour organised by Group 5, the biggest development partner in the Group Five/Pandev/WBHO consortium that is building the stadium, Ellingson said there had also been unprecedented interest from businesses considering setting up shop in the 7 200 square metre retail area. A supermarket retail opportunity, combined with a sport retailer, are expected to be given leases in the retail sector.
Money generated through the tourism activities and retail area would help offset the titanic maintenance bill associated with the stadium.
Documents leaked to the Daily News last year indicated that the city would have to fork out at least R28-billion over the next 50 years to maintain the facility.
Source:
R35m cable car for KZN 2010 stadium
Independent Online
March 19, 2009
Moses Mabhida Stadium
Wikipedia
