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Durban Funworld, the iconic beachfront amusement park, is set to close its operations on May 1 after more than 50 years of providing fun and entertainment to visitors. The news of its closure has come as a shock to many, especially those who have grown up visiting the park over the years.
Owned by third-generation operator Nic Steyn, the park was built by his family from the ground up when the site was just a patch of grass. Steyn has spent the past 12 years trying to find a suitable operator to take over the amusement rides and other assets, operated by Durban Funworld, but to no avail.
In an interview, Steyn expressed his sadness at the closure, stating that it would be a sad day for Durban, especially for those who have grown up visiting the park. "Funworld has been a part of the Golden Mile for more than 50 years, and it has been an integral part of the Durban beachfront experience. It's heartbreaking to see it go," he said.
The closure of Durban Funworld marks the end of an era, and it's not just the park's loyal visitors who will miss it. Many employees, some of whom have worked at the park for decades, will lose their jobs when the park shuts down.
Establishing an amusement park is a capital-intensive business, and Steyn has been unable to find a suitable operator to take over the park's operations. He has also expressed sadness at how the situation on the beachfront has changed in recent times, affecting the appearance and appeal of the area.
However, there is still hope for the future of the site. The third-generation owner of Durban Waterworld, another beachfront attraction, has offered to continue operating the facility while the city looks for a suitable operator to take over Funworld's operations. The site is owned by the municipality and leased to Funworld, and the lease expired in 2017 and has been on a month-to-month basis since.
According to eThekwini Municipality spokesperson Lindiwe Khuzwayo, the property will be going out to tender in June/July 2023 to invite proposals for redevelopment in line with the zoning of the property. This means that there is a possibility that a new amusement park could be established on the site in the future, although it remains to be seen if it will match the popularity of Durban Funworld.
Meanwhile, the amusement rides, attractions and other assets will be put up for auction online from April 20. This presents an opportunity for businesses and individuals to purchase a piece of Durban Funworld history and potentially even start their own amusement park.
As Durban Funworld prepares to bid farewell to its loyal visitors, it remains a beloved part of the city's history and a reminder of the joy and excitement it brought to generations of beachgoers.
