ABOUT US
Our VISION
To create a safe, clean, and thriving Mayville where residents, businesses, and visitors enjoy a well-managed urban environment and a sense of shared community pride.
OUR MISSION
Through collective action and sustainable urban management, the Mayville UIP partners with stakeholders to:
- Improve safety and security
- Enhance public spaces, cleanliness, and infrastructure
- Build community partnerships that strengthen Mayville business’s ability to respond quickly to security threats and long-term resilience
- Foster economic growth for businesses & increased property values
Our Story
Before the 2021 riots, Mayville had already been experiencing a slow decay of its once-proud neighbourhood. Regular incidents of crime, including burglaries, car hijackings, theft, assault, and robbery, had begun to undermine business confidence and community pride.
The Durban riots of 2021 were a turning point Mayville Pictures from Riots.
Several buildings were lost to looting and fire, but thanks to the swift action of Mr. Ashraf Bana of New Global — who privately funded armed security and rallied local businesses — even greater losses were prevented.
From this effort, the Mayville Business Watch was formed. A volunteer committee and 15 contributing businesses (link) have since provided ongoing security for Buro Crescent, Walter Place, and Saxon Avenue. Their commitment not only repaid Mr. Bhana’s initial contribution but also set a powerful example of shared responsibility — significantly reducing security incidents in the area.
The unrest made it clear that Mayville, situated on the frontline with Cato Manor, faces unique risks and cannot rely on SAPS for protection. We need to be better prepared and by working together, we can safeguard our community — but relying on a few businesses to carry the cost for all is not sustainable.
This realisation sparked the vision for a formal, long-term solution: the proposed Mayville Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP) — a united effort to create a cleaner, safer, and more resilient neighbourhood, officially launching in 2026.
resilient neighbourhood, officially launching in 2026.
This would cover area with perimeter between Jan Smuts Highway , King Cetshwayo Highway, Garth Road Galway Road and internally include Buro Crescent , Walter Place & Saxon Avenue.
Remembering the Businesses and Livelihoods Lost During the Durban Riots
Let us not forget the Mayville companies and livelihoods of all that were severely impacted during the Durban Riots:
- AG Greenaway’s
- Baby City
- Maroon Paints
- Basic Homeware
- Ubertex
- Kitchen Studio
- Check Out
Mayville still bears the scars
Video of Basic Homeware building in Saxon Avenue going up in flames during Durban Riots
AG Greenways Business and property belonging to Garth Ribbink
Milestones
Mayville UIP — Timeline
Key milestones and planned steps toward establishing the Mayville Urban Improvement Precinct.
Steady Decline
Regular incidents of crime, including burglaries, car hijackings, theft, assault, and robbery.
Community Impact
The Durban riots highlighted the urgent need for stronger local safety and urban management.
Mayville Business Watch Established
Led by Mr. Ashraf Bhana, a volunteer committee of property owners and tenants began funding a dedicated security presence — resulting in significantly reduced crime in the area.
Non-Profit Company Formed
Directors appointed to manage day-to-day affairs, collect funds, and make payments.
Survey & Stakeholder Engagement
A survey was conducted and discussions with residents, businesses, and the municipality commenced to lay the foundation for a sustainable UIP model.
Public Consultation & Approval
Public meetings, feasibility studies, and formal approval processes due to commence to move the vision closer to reality.
Application Submission to Council
After public consultation, property owners will be asked to vote in favour of UIP. Based on public feedback, and provided 51% or more support is obtained, business plans and finance budgets will be finalised and submitted.
Council Approval
Council approval expected for establishment of the UIP and associated levy collection.
NPC Re-established with Elected Directors
The Non-Profit Company will be reconstituted with newly elected directors to formally manage UIP operations in line with statutory requirements.
Launch of Mayville UIP
Our Partners & Stakeholders
Together with our valued partners and stakeholders — from the municipality and police services to local businesses and residents — we are building a united front to uplift Mayville and ensure a thriving, secure community.
Experience from other UIPs shows that they receive better recognition and enjoy greater cooperation from key stakeholders such as SAPS and Metro, which will enable us to engage more effectively as a collective to improve service delivery.