JRA responds to complaints about Sixpence Road’s decay
The agency says it is currently assessing the extent of structural damage to the affected roadway and remedial works will be undertaken to restore the integrity and safety of the road infrastructure.
The Johannesburg Road Agency (JRA) responded to queries about the deteriorating Sixpence Road, which was washed away by stormwater discharge a year ago.
According to JRA head of regional operations Khaya Gqibitole, the agency is aware of the issue. The recent washaway at Sixpence Road resulted from unlawful stormwater discharge from a private property directly into the municipal road reserve.
“The agency conducted a site inspection, and Hamburg depot technical officials determined that the concentrated flow of stormwater was not connected to an approved system and contravenes municipal by-laws governing stormwater management and the protection of public infrastructure,” said Gqibitole.
The agency told the Roodepoort Northsider that a formal meeting was held with the property owner, during which the non-compliant discharge was addressed. The owner has been instructed to cease the illegal discharge immediately and to implement compliant stormwater control measures in line with municipal engineering standards. Failure to comply will result in enforcement action in terms of applicable legislation and municipal by-laws.
Residents believe the continued flow of water from higher-lying properties is accelerating the collapse of Sixpence Road and warn that further heavy rain could cause more extensive structural damage. They have called for urgent intervention, proper stormwater repairs and immediate road rehabilitation.
“The JRA is currently assessing the extent of structural damage to the affected roadway, including erosion of the subgrade and shoulder material. Remedial works will be undertaken to restore the integrity and safety of the road infrastructure,” Gqibitole added.
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The agency reiterated that private stormwater systems may not discharge onto public roads or municipal property without approved design and authorisation. Uncontrolled discharges pose significant risks to infrastructure, public safety and JRA resources.
