18 Feb 2004

Work has begun on a new N2 interchange that will provide access to the new R727 million Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom - scheduled to open later this year.

The interchange, 5.3kms north of Umhlanga/La Lucia Ridge, will effectively cut a path to the casino, which already has access from the M4 coastal road.

Situated on 48ha of land, Sibaya commands a magnificent 360-degree ocean and hinterland view just north of the Ohlanga River and south of the Umdloti beach interchange.

The opening of the new interchange will co-incide with the opening of the casino later this  year.

"The interchange is being developed initially to allow ease of access into Sibaya, but it will also allow further expansion and development of Moreland property east and west of the N2 in this area," says Neels Brink, director resorts, Moreland Developments.

"The developments north of Durban have proved so successful that further expansion and growth is expected and this new  interchange will facilitate these future developments."

The R40 million tender was awarded to Isibaya Group Consortium, a joint venture empowerment consortium comprising Pan African  Development, Umpheme Development and Group 5 Construction.

"Sibaya's construction is well on track to open within the fourth quarter of this year," says Afrisun general manager, Tristan Kaatze.

"We  are excited about the development of this interchange which provides a safe and shorter route from the N2 into Sibaya. Access into the casino will be extremely convenient from the north and south."

Sibaya will have 1000 slot machines and 37 gambling tables in three areas.

It will boast a traditional Zulu theatre with seating for 500 people, plus a 250-seater boma.

There will be a showbar on two levels that will feature televised sporting events and facilitate comedy and cabaret shows.

Hoping to attract conferences and other functions, Sibaya will have an "Imbizo" multipurpose facility with 1 000 cinema-style and 500 banquet-style seats and breakaway facilities.

The site will also be home to a luxury hotel with 12 suites and 24 rooms, a key component of the  casino's salon Privé, which will have a lounge, restaurant and high limit slot machines and table games.

There will be a number of restaurants: an a la carte seafood restaurant, coffee shop, cocktail bar, lounge and fast food court.

The casino will have 2000 parking bays, including undercover parking for 600 cars. - Mercury Network