We have passed 900 consents received  – 70% of our target reached !!!

REJUVENATING CENTRAL CAN BE THE CATALYST AND TIPPING POINT TO TAKE TOURISM IN PORT ELIZABETH ON A JOURNEY FROM GOOD TO GREAT!

From a tourism perspective, Central is certainly blessed with a strategic location second to none, as it is within ten-minute proximity to virtually everything important for visitors to the City, such as the airport; the harbour; the beaches; Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium; St Georges Park, etc. Central is also blessed with a wonderful range of unique and rich cultural and historical tourism experiences and fascinating stories, most of which are still largely untapped and untold, but that have the potential to strongly appeal to the five senses and provide delightful, distinctive and memorable experiences for both local and international tourists.

There can be no doubt whatsoever that if the perception and reality of safety and cleanliness is addressed as a strategic priority, and if appropriately developed, “refreshed”, packaged, promoted and distinctively positioned, Central can become a major “must experience” tourism focal point, particularly when seamlessly connected with other complementary tourism experiences and stories in the City. It can also be a major building block to take tourism in the Metro from Good to Great and benefit many, many people in the City!

My belief and hope is that with the envisaged initiatives of the Central SRA, other key public and private sector stakeholders in the City, and the positive support of locals, Central will very soon be launching into an exciting journey to not only become, but also be widely recognized by everyone, as a sought-after and desirable safe and clean place to live, work, play and experience!

Ernie Heath is an Emeritus Professor at the University of Pretoria, where he was Head of the Department of Tourism Management for fifteen years.

Name : Hilary Meyer

Occupation : Office Manager

Connection to Central : Resident Property owner

Why is the SRA Important to you?  I have lived in Central since 1978 and have owned my home there since December 1981.  Central is a unique suburb,  the historic core of Port Elizabeth, a true melting pot of cultures and residential and work environments. I have seen changes over the years and realise, both as an architect, a keen historian and a proud South African, that the need to preserve and enhance our environment and show our heritage is extremely important. Vital if we are to grow as a city and welcome others to share our uniqueness.

 

Name : Jurie Kotze

Occupation : Estate Agent – Staytoday Property

Connection to Central : Property owner

Why is the SRA Important to you?  Central has a rich historical connection and an architecture worth preserving. Out of an economic point of viewing it is the first suburb which visitors see when they drive into Port Elizabeth over the highway or up Russell Road, that first impression is important. The suburb has the potential to supply PE with quality high density accommodation which has endless advantages. Currently the suburb is not maximizing its potential and I believe the SRA will assist in turning the suburb into a show piece for the city, rather than a embarrassment.

 

Listen here to Kenrick Brown chatting to Lize-Mari Arthur during the “Yay The Bay” segment on Kingfisher FM.

This was broadcast on 31 January 2019.

 

Name : Cathy Wanvig

Occupation : Small Business Owner + SRA marketing

Connection to Central : Resident Property owner

Why is the SRA Important to you? Having returned from overseas in 2011, I decided to settle in Central. It is a true microcosm with an unique vibe about it. We know all our neighbors and we all stand together whenever there is a problem, which contrary to common belief, is rare. I hate seeing posts on social media (from ignorant people) about how bad Central is and how it should be avoided. Nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, there are a few derelict building, a few problem areas and a criminal element. However with the entire Central community standing together to form the SRA, we will be able to eradicate these bad elements and return Central to a safe, clean and desirable place to live and work.

 

Name : Rod Carradice

Occupation : Retired from Municipality

Connection to Central : Property owner
Why is the SRA Important to you? I love its history, when people used to live together, the characters who lived in some buildings that used to stand proudly and even though they are even ram shamble now their history projects through and continue to make a bold statement. Ready for restoration so they can once again be seen in all their splendor. History still walks the sidewalks. Old cast iron poles still stand where once a gas lamp stood a-top beaming into the dark. You don’t get that in the new suburbs . The Opera House, the former cinemas that are still scattered in the side streets, the old Hotels.
I know the new influx of outsiders, seems out of place, but in a strange way they find a space and fit in…. That`s Central, it absorbs all who come around. The sad irony is that all can be accommodated except the criminals and drugsters, just never find a home. I am a former Municipal employee who found joy in exploring the ambiance of the character of this area. I wish to see the match of the buildings and the people find a harmony without all of the ugliness and trash that lines the streets