Major refurbishment set to last 30 months on the cards for Moses Mabhida Stadium
Image: Doctor Ngcobo / Independent Newspapers
The further refurbishment of Moses Mabhida Stadium (MMS) in Durban could be completed in 30 months, at an estimated R284 million, if a tabled proposal from an eThekwini Municipality's sub-committee is approved.
The request for the extension of the contract to conduct emergency remedial work on the concrete and roof structure for MMS was noted at the Community Services Committee (CSC) on July 17.
The CSC is a sub-committee of the city's executive committee.
The refurbishment of the MMS started on March 28, 2024, and was due to end on September 28, 2025.
However, the municipality stated that some projects were delayed as priority was provided to foundation packages that were the backbone, while the remaining packages envisaged for completion in 2025/2026 and 2026/ 2027 financial years.
On May 31, 2025, the city aimed to extend the contract for 30 months due to the identified structural complications and risks.
According to the CSC report, the extension of the current scope to complete the original work packages, but focusing on lists that were subject to further testing and were dependent on completion of the foundation packages, are:
PROPOSED BUDGETS
Civil: MMS structural steel painting - R19 million
Electrical: sky car upgrade - R25 million
Civil: infrastructure upgrade, expansion joints - R35 million
Civil: infrastructure upgrade cables and canvas roof system - R135 million
Lighting: upgrade - floodlight to LED - R55 million
Civil: replacement of arch cladding MMS - R2 million
Upgrade of audio visual system - R6 million
Big swing upgrade, zipline, and adventure walk - R4 million
Viewing platform - R2 million
In a statement earlier this month, the municipality indicated that the refurbishment project at the MMS is progressing well. The upgrades to the stadium, which has been in operation for 15 years, have been strategically phased to minimise disruptions to scheduled activities and public access.
The committee acknowledged the importance of completing the remaining work within the revised timeline and emphasised the need for close monitoring to ensure that the project meets both quality and compliance standards.
The renovation will also see the introduction of the following new features to ensure the stadium remains a premier tourist destination:
New Viewing Platform with 60% increase in floor area featuring a cantilevered glass floor for an 'Air Walk' experience.
New Sky Car with increased travel time, which will be accessible to people with disabilities.
New Big Swing with improved access to the launch platform.
New Zip Line, which ends at the People's Park.
Compression Ring Walk, which provides panoramic views with a sea-facing bungee jump option.
The municipality stated that the refurbishment not only secured MMS as a premier venue for sports, concerts, and cultural events but also contributed to local job creation, skills development, and small business support through the procurement of services from local contractors.
Despite the renovations, the stadium has successfully hosted several high-profile events, including the 2025 Nedbank Cup Final and the Toyota Cup match between Kaizer Chiefs and Asante Kotoko on July 26.
zainul.dawood@inl.co.za
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