State-owned Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has turned the first sod for the construction of R147-million Latimer’s Landing at the Port of East London.

The revitalisation of the quay structure marks a significant step towards the long-anticipated waterfront development, which is envisioned to play a key role in boosting tourism and promoting overall economic growth for the benefit of the port community and the Eastern Cape province.

TNPA says the structure is a critical port infrastructure asset, which was originally designed for marine operational use, but has over the years transitioned into a public recreational area essential for local tourism activities.

The construction of this new quay structure is part of the transformation of the Latimer’s Landing waterfront development within the Port of East London. The facility is earmarked to advance development of various business operations, including restaurants, leisure outlets, tourism centres, as well as related activities that will draw steady traffic into the precinct.

The development further supports TNPA’s strategic goals of optimising its real estate portfolio by attracting new ventures such as tourism, while fostering private sector participation and unlocking opportunities to stimulate economic growth.

“This milestone comes at a time when the business is focused on growing and stabilising itself through Transnet’s ‘Reinvent for Growth’ strategy. This development charts a new course for the Eastern Cape economy by supporting value-adding industries. The investment aligns with the positioning of the port for the tourism sector, a TNPA strategic objective aimed at expanding the port's service offering by integrating with the leisure market,” TNPA acting CE Phyllis Difeto said at the sod-turning ceremony on October 21.

She said the East London community was already realising economic benefits from the project, with 44 jobs already created as of October for the citizens of the city. Throughout the entire 24-month construction period ending in April 2027, the project is expected to generate about 55 total employment opportunities.

The appointed contractor for the project, Stefanutti Stocks, has committed to collaborating with local small-, medium-sized and microenterprises to unlock additional business opportunities.