Merafong’s revamp plan stalls as Carletonville CBD deteriorates
Vandalism, filth, and infrastructure decay continues to plague the area.
Just over a year since the Merafong City Local Municipality launched its ambitious “Re-imagining Merafong Vision 2035,” aimed at revitalising local central business districts, residents and visitors are still faced with worsening urban decay — especially in Carletonville.
The municipality first shared the long-term vision at a function at the Fochville Civic Centre on 26 June 2024, promising focused urban management interventions and the creation of City Improvement Districts (CIDs) to tackle the eyesores deterring investors.
But a glance down Flint Street, right next to the municipality’s own Carletonville offices, tells a different story.
CBD in crisis
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Stormwater drain covers have been stolen and never replaced, leaving behind deep, dangerous holes in the parking bays — some of which have been open for several years.
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A vandalised electrical box in front of Miladys and others covered in stickers advertising illegal medical services create an image of neglect.
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Fires are made on traffic islands between parking bays, and a section of a stolen overhead cable lies strewn across the pavement.
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The cable, as far as can be determined, once powered a surveillance camera intended to help curb crime in the area.
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Littering is rampant, public dustbins are scarce, and the overall condition of the CBD is grim.
What was once billed as a comprehensive plan to attract investment and “reimagine” Merafong’s future has, thus far, resulted in no visible change in Carletonville’s crumbling commercial core.
Municipality silent on lack of progress
Despite the serious state of disrepair, municipal spokesperson Temba Fezani did not respond to media enquiries about the status of the plan or the reasons for the delay in implementing key aspects of the Vision 2035 strategy.
At the time of the plan’s launch, the municipality emphasised that a poor urban environment was directly linked to economic stagnation, arguing that revitalising the CBDs was crucial to securing Merafong’s long-term survival and investment appeal.
Yet, with continued infrastructure failures, unchecked vandalism, and mounting public frustration, the community is left questioning whether Vision 2035 is destined to remain just that — a vision, rather than a reality.
