The eThekwini Municipality has placed the expansion of the Cornubia housing development at the heart of its 2026/27 draft budget, positioning it as a key driver of improved living conditions and economic opportunity for northern communities.
Speaking at a packed consultation at OThongathi Town Hall on 5 May, Deputy Mayor Zandile Myeni said the City is prioritising housing delivery alongside essential services following repeated disasters that have strained infrastructure.
More than R871 million has been allocated to projects in the northern corridor, with Cornubia Phase 2 emerging as a flagship initiative aimed at addressing housing backlogs while integrating communities closer to economic hubs.
The development is expected to provide thousands of families with access to formal housing, improved sanitation, and reliable basic services. Myeni noted that the Cornubia project goes beyond shelter, contributing to community upliftment through better urban planning, access to transport routes, and proximity to employment opportunities.
“We are building sustainable communities where residents can live, work and thrive,” she said.The housing rollout is complemented by upgrades to water infrastructure, including improvements to the oThongathi Water Treatment Works, as well as road repairs, sewer replacement, and enhanced safety measures.
Residents from several wards attended the session, raising concerns about water shortages, deteriorating roads, and rising tariffs. Many welcomed the focus on housing but stressed the need for faster implementation and inclusive community facilities such as schools and recreational spaces.
The City also highlighted the economic benefits of developments near Cornubia, including Dube TradePort and the Sibaya Precinct, which are expected to create thousands of jobs and boost regional growth.The draft budget remains open for public comment as the City finalises its development priorities.
Email: motshwari@onenews.co.za
