KZN South Coast Development Pledges Towards Local Investment

KZN South Coast Development Pledges Towards Local Investment. On Monday, the developers of Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate in Pennington joined 15 other KZN businesses in pledging to invest a total of R70.8 billion over the next two years at the KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference in Durban. This significant commitment highlights the real estate investment potential along the KZN South Coast, with developers anticipating a surge of interest in this over-50s lifestyle development.

“It was a pleasure to pledge our support and be involved in the exciting growth of the trade and export industry in KwaZulu-Natal,” commented Kelly Smith, Umdoni Point Estate Manager. “This development presents a fantastic opportunity to put the KZN South Coast on the map, showcasing the region’s potential and what we can achieve together.”

Smith noted that the pledge would create numerous job opportunities and offer a platform for networking with various KZN-based companies and delegates: “Being part of this project allows us to shape the future while raising awareness of the incredible opportunities our beautiful country has to offer,” she added.

Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate is set on 150 hectares of prime land, stretching from the ocean and surrounded by indigenous coastal forest, home to abundant wildlife in the tranquil village of Pennington. With 72% of the estate dedicated to undisturbed natural forests and wetlands, Umdoni Point appeals to investors seeking a peaceful, nature-filled retreat.

Currently in its fourth year of development, Phase 1 has been completed, including essential infrastructure and amenities. The estate is moving forward with Phase 2, with plans for over 800 homes to be developed over the next 12 to 15 years.

“This long-term development offers significant investment potential, both in residential properties—which promise strong returns through rental income and capital appreciation as the estate grows—and in select commercial opportunities, which can be explored further with the developer. The planned growth ensures steady property value increases, making Umdoni Point an attractive option for long-term investors,” Smith continued.

To date, 67 sales have been completed at Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate, with a diverse mix of investors. “While many buyers are local or from the surrounding area, approximately 30% of the investors are from abroad, highlighting the estate’s appeal to international buyers seeking a prime coastal investment. This blend of local and foreign investors reflects the growing demand for property in this desirable location,” said Smith.

Representatives from South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) attended the KwaZulu-Natal Investment Conference to promote the region’s investment potential, particularly in real estate. Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of SCTIE, remarked: “We commend the developers from Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate for their commitment to investment within the KZN South Coast, and we are confident this, alongside our many natural attractions, will continue to draw investors looking for quality, affordability, and the in-demand coastal lifestyle. We truly believe that now’s the time to invest in the KZN South Coast!”

Umdoni Point Coastal Forest Estate is one of several key developments unlocking property potential on the KZN South Coast. It joins other projects like Injabulo Lifestyle Estate, Renishaw Coastal Precinct, Renishaw Hills, Serenity Hills, and Bahari Bay.

The KZN South Coast is well-positioned to leverage investment opportunities through the Eastern Seaboard Development Initiative, with existing investor support provided by the Port Shepstone Business Hub and the KZN South Coast’s One-Stop Shop. The KZN South Coast offers unmatched investment opportunities across sectors such as: