The streets of Fourways, including busy routes like Winnie Mandela Road, Cedar Road, and Witkoppen Road, are increasingly disfigured by a proliferation of illegal advertisements.

These unauthorised signs, often plastered on lamp posts, street signs, billboards, and other public infrastructure, not only detract from the aesthetic appeal of the area but also raise serious questions about the efficacy of outdoor advertising regulations in Johannesburg.

Read more: JMPD called after billboard team busted erecting an illegal advert

Despite the obvious prevalence of this illicit industry, the relevant authorities seem to be turning a blind eye, allowing the problem to persist.

However, one local leader is refusing to let the issue slide. Ward 94 councillor David Foley has taken it upon himself to tackle the problem head-on, personally monitoring the streets and even catching those responsible in the act.

“This is another site where the unscrupulous sign erectors poured a cement base. They put bolts in, and what we did with the help of the JMPD was to cut the bolts off.

“But a few days later, they came back and put in new bolts. You can see it’s almost like a cement-based adhesive, which is also a bit of a challenge, because how much can that hold if it’s meant for a massive gantry?”

The illegal operation was meant to erect a gantry across William Nicol Drive.

@caxtonjoburgnorth Ward 94 David Foley talks about how his to stop illegal adverts in Fourways. #Ward94 #advertisment ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

“We also cut the extra bolts off on this side and that side so they couldn’t put the sign up. Gauteng Roads came here with jackhammers and tried to break down the actual concrete of this massive pillar. As you can see, it’s extremely, extremely hard.

“They struggled. That’s why it’s just been left the way it is. They can’t put another sign here because the bolts have been cut and there’s no space to install any others.”
Foley said this particular site, now abandoned, is just one of many across the area.

“This happened a couple of months ago. But like I say, if you don’t disturb them early, you have to catch them while they’re digging the hole before they pour the concrete. Then the hole can be closed up. The JMPD did come and told them that if they don’t have the approvals, they must close it up. And that’s what we tried to do.

“We tried to catch it early, so our people must be vigilant, just say, ‘Councillor, there’s a sign going up here.’ Whoever your councillor is in your area, inform them. Let them know. Let’s stop this illegal behaviour.”

Asked how widespread the issue is in Fourways, Foley didn’t hesitate: “It’s massive. All the provincial roads, Winnie Mandela, Witkoppen, Cedar. It’s a free-for-all. R55, Main Road. These guys take a chance wherever they can, unfortunately.”

The city’s outdoor advertising has been reached out for comment and will be uploaded once available.

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