This suburb has been transformed from a no-go area to the hottest spot in Durban right now..
About the area
It's never been easy to mix a light industrial area with a residential suburb – something always tends to give and sadly, it's not usually the commercial aspect that takes a knock. However, it’s not impossible to weave these two diverse sectors together and, as can be seen in the Station Drive Precinct, magic can happen if the right industries collaborate in the right area.
What was once considered a no-go area has been transformed into a hip spot that’s frequented by Durban's trendiest residents. Home to a craft brewery, restaurants and other creative tenants such as clothing designers, Holmes Bros and Sewn Clothing as well as Jane Sews, the area also hosts The Morning Trade market every Sunday. Fresh farm produce, including top-quality meats, home-made specialities as well as locally produced food are the order of the day at this popular meeting spot that draws people from all around the city.
Part of the attraction of living in Morningside is convenience. It is close to the centre of Durban and the nearby arterial routes make getting around easy. There are also a number of excellent schools to choose from, including Livingstone Primary School, a world-renowned remedial school, and Gordon Road Girls’ School. The region also has excellent shopping facilities on its doorstep including the Windermere Centre and the City View Shopping Centre in nearby Greyville.
There are a wealth of eateries available in Lillian Ngoyi Road (previously Windermere Road) including local favourites such as Delfi Greek Taverna, a family-run Greek establishment, and Billy the Bum’s, a popular watering hole and restaurant.
Although the area features a large sectional title component, there are also a number of residential homes scattered throughout the suburb. Many vintage homes in Lillian Ngoyi Road have been restored to their former glory and add to the overall character of this older area of Durban.
I moved into this area when I started working and don't see myself ever relocating to the ‘suburbs’. I love the vibe and the fact that everything I need is situated close by. It's truly a terrific place to live.
Resident, Chloe van Vuuren
Things to do:
Take a walk along Lillian Ngoyi Road and browse around antique shops, stop for a brew at one of the pubs, or grab a bite at one of the many restaurants that line this vibrant street.
Visit the Moses Mabhida Stadium. This beautiful stadium which was built for the 2010 Soccer World Cup has become an integral part of Durban’s skyline. Stop for a bite to eat or travel up the stadium’s SkyCar and take in the spectacular views.
The Golden Mile and Durban's beautiful beaches are just down the road. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the area is ideal for those who want to walk, cycle or jog along the city’s promenade.
Medical facilities nearby:
- Netcare Parklands Hospital
- Netcare St Augustine’s Hospital
- Life Entabeni Hospital
Nature nearby:
- Mitchell Park
- Jameson Park
- Durban Botanical Gardens
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
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