A multi-departmental inspection was carried out in the Randburg central business district (CBD), as the City of Johannesburg intensified efforts to restore order and address problem properties in the area.

Read more: Region B CRUM continues with service delivery campaign around Randburg

The operation was led by MMC for Group Corporate and Shared Services Sithembiso Zungu, alongside the citizen relationship and urban management (Crum) regional director. Officials from several city entities were present, including Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department, City Power, emergency management services, GFIS, and building development management.

The inspection began on Paris Avenue in Bordeaux and moved through Surrey Avenue and Bath Avenue in Ferndale. Teams assessed properties and public spaces, focusing on by-law compliance and general conditions in the CBD.

Addressing officials before the walkabout, the Crum regional director said Randburg remains an important commercial hub. He noted that key facilities, such as the police offices, library, clinic, and taxi rank, are based in the CBD, making it a vital centre for residents and businesses. He said the city wants to prevent further decline in the area, stressing the need for stronger by-law enforcement. During the inspection, officials pointed out issues, such as illegal parking, informal trading in undesignated areas, illegal mechanical work on the streets, and people occupying pavements and public spaces unlawfully.

Also read: City targets problem properties in Randburg

The director said business owners have expressed concern about the state of the CBD, and warned that failure to act could drive investment away from Randburg.

Zungu said the city has seen positive results in other parts of Johannesburg and believes the same can be achieved in Randburg. He referred to improvements made in the inner city and said visible change is possible when departments work together with commitment. He added that Randburg was once regarded as one of Johannesburg’s leading commercial centres, and should be restored to that standard. He raised concerns about litter and neglected public spaces, saying these issues damage the image of the area and affect community pride.

The MMC encouraged officials to act with urgency and passion, adding that restoring order in Randburg requires consistent enforcement and co-operation between departments.

The city said inspections of problem properties and enforcement of by-laws will continue as part of broader efforts to stabilise and improve the Randburg CBD.

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