Colenso: The heart of the Tugela basin

Colenso has been selected as one of the three decentralised growth points in the border areas of Natal and, together with Ladysmith, forms the southern axis of the Newcastle/Ladysmith growth pole which forms the nucleus of Region 32 pf the National Physical Development Plan, which Region comprises the Tugela Basin. Colenso is a decentralisation industrial centre, poised for development, situated on the souther bank of the Tugela river on the Natal main railway line, 299 kilometres from Durban and easily accessible to the other provinces. The climate throughout the year is exceptionally healthy. The town has an abundant supply of water obtained from the Tugela river, which is spanned by a barrage to regulate the water supply to the waterworks. The surrounding country is comparatively open with the Drakensberg clearly visible. Colenso was proclaimed·a township in August 1926 and attained borough status on the 5th June 1958. Capital improvements include municipal offices, Black township, public swimming baths, caravan park, a town hall and subsidiary buildings, including the public Library, New townships for Whites, Indians and Coloureds have been laid. The addition of a hall and classrooms to the Colenso primary school enable it to accommodate 450 pupils.

The e’Nkanyezi township is presently in the process of upgrading, to specifically cater for the needs of the middle management to top management employee in the area. Complete sewerage, water and electricty facilities are provided for each lot. A sporting complex and further educational facilities are also included in e’Nkanyezi’s upgrading. The fact that Colenso is situated in the heart of watered Tugela Basin with its mineral potential proximity to an abundant supply of Black labour makes area for industrial development.