Cornubia Area Guide

Cornubia Industrial Area Guide

Index

Cornubia at a Glance

Why Cornubia Works for Industrial Users

Tenant Profile & Business Ecosystem

Market Trends & Investment Opportunities

Cornubia Compared to Other Industrial Nodes

What Makes Cornubia Future-Proof

Amenities for Industrial Operators

Conclusion

Introduction

Cornubia is fast emerging as KwaZulu-Natal’s premier industrial and logistics node, strategically located just north of Durban between Umhlanga and Mount Edgecombe. This modern precinct is a flagship mixed-use development combining industrial, commercial, residential, and retail uses within a highly secure and sustainably designed framework.

Cornubia’s industrial component is a game-changer for Durban’s Northern Corridor. With direct access to major transport arteries, proximity to King Shaka International Airport, and world-class infrastructure, it is rapidly becoming the location of choice for national distributors, last-mile delivery companies, light manufacturers, and logistics firms.

Cornubia at a Glance

• Location: Durban North, adjacent to Umhlanga and Mount Edgecombe

• Zoning: Mixed-use with a strong emphasis on industrial and logistics platforms

• Key Infrastructure: Fibre optics, 3-phase power, stormwater management, wide roads

• Access Routes: N2, R102, M41, and King Shaka International Airport (15 min away)

• Security: 24-hour access-controlled estates, monitored by CCTV and armed response

Strategic Industrial Positioning

Cornubia’s industrial parks are purpose-built to accommodate modern warehousing, logistics hubs, and value-add manufacturing. The design standards and infrastructure reflect a forward-thinking approach to operational efficiency and sustainability.

Key precincts include:

• Cornubia Industrial & Business Estate (CIBE) – A world-class logistics and industrial park catering to national and multinational tenants such as DSV, Bidvest, and Corruseal.

• Cornubia Ridge Logistics Park – Tailored for larger logistics operations, offering high load-bearing floors, wide turning circles, and cutting-edge green design features.

• Mount Edgecombe interchange connection – Provides direct linkage to freight corridors, improving travel times and cutting operational delays.

Why Cornubia Works for Industrial Users

1. Logistical Advantage

Cornubia’s location between Durban Harbour and the airport creates a dual-access advantage for import/export and local distribution. Businesses can service both coastal and inland markets efficiently.

• 15 minutes to King Shaka International Airport

• 20–25 minutes to Durban Port

• 5 minutes to Mount Edgecombe Interchange

• Direct access to the N2 and R102 corridors

2. Infrastructure Built for Industry

Industrial occupiers benefit from:

• 3-phase power with scalable loads

• High-clearance warehouses ideal for racking and automation

• Truck-friendly designs including wide roads, roller doors, and dock levellers

• Fibre connectivity for logistics and ERP systems

• Ample yard space for container handling and truck articulation

3. Security & Controlled Environments

Business parks are access-controlled, patrolled, and offer perimeter fencing, guardhouses, and ANPR systems. This reduces operational risks and protects goods in transit.

Tenant Profile & Business Ecosystem

Cornubia is home to some of the most well-known logistics and distribution players in South Africa. Key sectors include:

• Third-Party Logistics (3PL): DSV, Bidvest

• Retail Distribution: Woolworths, Spar, Clicks

• Packaging & Printing: Corruseal, Uniprint

• Light Manufacturing: Plumbing supplies, aluminium products, construction materials

• Tech-Driven Supply Chains: E-commerce fulfilment centres and green logistics providers

Tenants benefit from a collaborative industrial ecosystem with shared values in sustainability, efficiency, and long-term growth.

Market Trends & Investment Opportunities

Strong Occupier Demand

Industrial space in Cornubia continues to attract high levels of demand, particularly for:

• Mid-size units (300m² – 1500m²) for flexible logistics

• Larger warehouses (2000m²+) for retail and FMCG distribution

• Sites with yard space and container access

Rising Rentals & Capital Growth

• Average rentals range from R85 – R120/m², depending on unit size and spec

• Capital values are rising due to infrastructure and tenant stability

• Rental escalations are averaging 7% – 8% per annum in prime locations

ESG-Driven Developments

Developers are implementing energy-efficient features including solar readiness, rainwater harvesting, and green roofing systems, aligning with ESG investment criteria.

Cornubia Compared to Other Industrial Nodes

What Makes Cornubia Future-Proof

• Masterplanned Infrastructure – Designed from the ground up with future needs in mind

• Integrated Urban Environment – Live-work-play ecosystem supporting workforce needs

• Municipal Support – Backed by eThekwini Municipality and strategic government incentives

• Scalable Business Potential – Units from 200m² to 10,000m² accommodate growth over time

Amenities for Industrial Operators

• Cornubia Mall – Staff shopping, food courts, and services

• Nearby Fuel Stations – Easy access for truck refuelling

• Public Transport – Bus routes and minibus taxis service the entire area

• On-Site Cafés and Kitchens – Many buildings feature staff-friendly facilities

Conclusion

Cornubia represents the next frontier for Durban’s industrial property market. Its modern infrastructure, prime logistics positioning, and scalable business environment make it a clear standout for serious operators. With rising demand and competitive investment yields, Cornubia is not only a smart move now – it’s a future-proof foundation for long-term growth.

Explore current opportunities in Cornubia with our team of commercial property experts. Contact us today to arrange a viewing or receive tailored property recommendations.