After remaining open for a full years, Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has begun the process of repairing the damaged storm water drain in the massive trench on Republic Road, know as Kenny’s Canyon.
Read more: JRA starts water channel repairs in Bromhof, but the damage has already been done
The hole, which lies at the entrance to Ferndale on Republic Shopping Centre, was dug by Johannesburg Water (JW) on July 19, 2024, to fix a water leak. Since then, the site has not been backfilled.
According to officials, the delay was due to the damage to the storm water pipe during the excavation, which needed to be repaired first by JRA. Delegations from both entities met on September 6, 2024, to discuss resolutions regarding the reinstatement of the damaged storm water pipe and the damaged road section, but nothing came of it.
According to JRA’s head of department of Regional Operations Khaya Gqibitole, on July 23, 2025, they appointed a contractor to undertake extensive repairs of the damaged storm water drain, and the reinstatement of the road. “This was followed by a site establishment and implementation of the traffic accommodation plan to ensure that motorists and the public are safe during construction work. Construction is currently underway and will reach practical completion on October 30.”
Also read: JRA responds to a six-year-old reinstatement
Ward 102 councillor Lucinda Harman confirmed that the projects will take up to two months to finish. “The infrastructure first has to be sorted out, before they can backfill. It’s a two-month process. They’ve got a contractor team on site. It has taken a year for JRA and JW to take notice and do their job, and we wonder why.”
The Mercure Hotel was among several businesses impacted, as rubble from the excavation piled next to their fence, and their garden was destroyed.
Hotel general manager Prisca Hlatshwayo shared how they have been affected:
• Reduced walk-in traffic due to limited access,
• Increased guest complaints and cancellations from safety concerns,
• Damage to the hotel’s brand image caused by unappealing surroundings, and
• Marketing efforts hindered by the neglected environment.
“Our occupancy levels and revenue performance have been consistently below forecast during this period,” said Hlatshwayo. “We remain hopeful that the municipality will urgently complete the repairs, not only for the sake of the hotel, but for the overall image and safety of Randburg as a commercial and hospitality hub.”
The contractors have been seen on site and have started the work. The entrance road is closed off and they have installed a barricade.
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