Local news

Decaying sites targeted for transformation in major urban renewal push

A site in Centurion is one of several municipal sites identified by the metro for development.

A registered plot in Centurion, Zwartkop Ext 16, is among several across Tshwane to undergo major rejuvenation, as the metro rolls out an urban renewal drive aimed at transforming forgotten spaces into thriving centres of opportunity.

According to MMC for Corporate and Shared Services Kholofelo Morodi, the city is taking steps to breathe new life into neglected municipal spaces and restore dignity to the built environment.

She said this marks a powerful shift from years of urban decay to purposeful renewal, led by the city’s Bad Buildings Committee.

“Through this committee, 10 strategically located municipal properties are being released for lease and development,” she said.

These include:

– Erf 1932 Zwartkop Extension 16 in Centurion,
– The remains of Erf 6957 in Mamelodi (HM Pitje Stadium),
– Nelson Mandela Corridor Project properties in Sunnyside (Erven 1/822–1417 and related erven),
– Odi Stadium, portion of the remainder of the farm Mabopane 702-JR,
– Pretoria Showgrounds Events Centre (Skougronde Farm No 648-JR and Portion 5 of Pretoria Town and Townlands Farm No 346-JR),
– Erf 43 Verwoerdburgstad, and
– Rosslyn Industrial Properties (Erven 372–375, 396–399, 401–403, and 469–470 Rosslyn Extension).

The term ‘erf’ refers to an officially registered plot or parcel of land within a township or suburb extension, each identified by a unique number in the deeds register.

This allows the city to specify exactly which municipal properties are being earmarked for renewal and development.

“These sites, once symbols of neglect, are now positioned to become engines of local development,” Morodi said.

She explained that the Bad Buildings Committee had played a critical role in identifying and unlocking their potential, ensuring the metro’s renewal efforts are strategic and inclusive.

“This initiative is more than a property release; it is a city-wide call to action.”

She added that by reclaiming and repurposing underutilised municipal assets, the city is actively reversing years of deterioration and transforming forgotten properties into vibrant hubs of economic and social activity.

“Each site represents a chance to rebuild, reconnect, and reignite economic and social vitality across our communities,” she said.

“The rejuvenation of these properties forms part of a broader mission by the City of Tshwane to ensure every corner of the metro contributes to growth, job creation, and community upliftment.”

Morodi encouraged investors, developers, and entrepreneurs to partner with the metro in transforming dormant land into dynamic, people-focused spaces that can boost local economies and improve community life.

To further support residents and promote fair access to opportunities, the MMC said the city is continuing to roll out the ‘Know Your Way In – Lease Application Workshop’.

The programme is a capacity-building initiative that helps communities understand how to engage municipal processes transparently and effectively.

“This is about empowering residents with the tools and confidence to access opportunities,” explained Morodi.

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Tshiamo Boikhutso

Tshiamo is a junior journalist focusing on community news in Pretoria, particularly in the Centurion area. Tshiamo writes for the Centurion Rekord as well as Rekord’s online platforms.
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