Residents across Region F have called for urgent action on service delivery issues during an online consultation session hosted by the City of Johannesburg on April 14.

The session formed part of the City’s Integrated Development Planning (IDP) process and was led by Clr Tefo Raphadu, chair of the Section 79 Committee for Corporate and Shared Services. It brought together residents and city leadership to review progress and discuss future priorities.

Raphadu stressed the importance of public participation, encouraging residents to share their input on the draft IDP and proposed changes to rates and tariffs.

“These sessions are an opportunity to update communities on projects underway in their areas, while also ensuring their voices guide future planning,” said Raphadu.

MMC for Development Planning, Eunice Mgcina, presented the city’s vision through ‘The People’s Plan,’ describing it as a collaborative approach to building a city that works for all residents.

“The People’s Plan is about working with residents, strengthening trust and accountability, and delivering services that matter most. Importantly, the IDP must directly inform how the City’s budget is structured,” Mgcina said.

Her presentation highlighted progress on several capital projects in Region F. The Inner City Distribution Substation refurbishment at Van Beek is currently 65% complete.

Upgrades at Settlers Park, including fountain refurbishment and bulk electrical work, are nearing completion at 85%. The upgrade of Phineas McIntosh Park has been fully completed.

Raising concerns

Despite this progress, residents raised a wide range of concerns. These included unreliable water supply, deteriorating roads, illegal electricity connections, crime, homelessness, and the growth of informal settlements and illegal buildings.

Many residents also complained about slow responses from city departments and ongoing vandalism of infrastructure.

Gavin Dennis, a resident from Ward 56, described worsening road conditions in Turffontein, La Rochelle, and Springfield. He said some roads have become nearly impossible to drive on.

He also raised concerns about missing traffic lights and ongoing water leaks in Glenvista, particularly along Van Beek Street, where some leaks have remained unrepaired for months.

A Ward 58 resident highlighted poor conditions in old-age homes in the area. The resident said there is a lack of maintenance and insufficient security, leaving elderly residents increasingly vulnerable.

MMC for Human Settlements, Mlungisi Mabaso, acknowledged the problems affecting old age homes. He said delays in contracts have impacted the provision of security services, but assured residents that a procurement process is now underway.

Residents have been encouraged to read the draft IDP at https://tinyurl.com/5n7tkfw9 and submit their comments at https://tinyurl.com/43f4hbar before submissions close on May 18 at 17:00.

For more information, visit the City’s website.

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