City to implement temporary road closures in Victoria Orange Grove West for safer streets

A provisional decision to implement security access restrictions across key roads in Victoria Orange Grove West has been granted by the City of Johannesburg.

This announcement marks an important step forward for the Victoria Orange Grove West Residents Association in its ongoing commitment to enhancing neighbourhood safety.

Under the interim approval, a series of temporary road closures will be introduced. These include Burford Road, Shipston Lane and various other critical thoroughfares. Each restriction comes with specific relaxation hours, ensuring minimal disruption to public movement while prioritising resident safety.

Also read: JRA asks motorists to be careful as summer rains bring floods

For instance, Burford Road will remain open from 05:00 to 19:30 daily, transitioning to a monitored closure from 19:30 to 05:00. Similar adjustments apply to Shipston Lane, 5th Street, and 6th Street, reflecting a thoughtful balance between access and security. Pedestrian gates will also follow strict schedules, with closures designed to deter unauthorised activity during late-night hours.

The City of Johannesburg has emphasised that this provisional approval does not equate to final authorisation. The public is invited to provide comments or raise objections within 30 days of the notice’s publication in the Provincial Gazette. Pending the absence of substantial objections, the restrictions will take full effect two months after gazetting and will remain valid for four years.

Also read: Ward 90 councillor unimpressed with JRA’s progress reinstatement report

Critically, the restrictions adhere to the city’s access policy – no guard or individual may deny entry or demand identification from any person or vehicle using the affected roads. This ensures a transparent and fair process for all residents and visitors.

The decision follows an exhaustive review process by the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), tasked with managing and overseeing the administrative rollout. Residents can view detailed plans and submit comments to the JRA offices in Braamfontein.

This initiative underscores a collective effort by the association and the city to create a secure and thriving community. However, residents and stakeholders must remain engaged to ensure the restrictions serve their intended purpose without unwarranted inconvenience.

For more details, visit www.jra.org.za. Feedback and concerns can be directed to the Traffic Engineering Department at their Sauer Street or Braamfontein offices.

Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.

Related articles: Reviving the Orange Grove waterfall: a call for visionary restoration