24-07-2014: Joburg to consult on future of informal trading
The City of Johannesburg is set to implement its long-term development strategy with a focus on informal trade to create a vibrant inclusive economy in a well managed and welcoming Inner City.
Given the high number of challenges experienced in the inner City streets which amongst others includes:
· Trading activities that impede the movement of pedestrians
· The deterioration of the public environment on many streets due to high volumes of trading activity
· Illegal traders using the overcrowded conditions to evade bylaw enforcement.
· SAPS and JMPD having difficulties combating crime due to the conditions
As from 28 July until 5 August 2014 the City will be undertaking meaningful engagement on its revised approach to informal trading, property and business owners, public transport operators, residents, non governmental organisations, the courts and security cluster as well as the informal traders.
At the end of this consultation all comments and inputs will be duly considered and consolidated in a plan for the proclamation and de-proclamation of certain City streets. This plan will thereafter be published for written comment over 21 days and the necessary administrative processes followed for Council approval and eventual gazetting.
“Informal traders are here to stay and our view is that street trading is a vital part of the city’s history and a major player in the second economy” says councilor Ruby Mathang member of the mayoral committee for Economic Development in Johannesburg.
Councillor Mathang gave this assurance as Joburg prepares to engage with various stakeholders and eventually better manage its street trading.
Continuing MMC Mathang says, “The City embraces its hawkers – we want to make life easier and more stable for those who trade legally because we want a commercially viable and dynamic informal trading sector in a clean and welcoming environment.
He further said that he urges all affected parties to attend and participate in the meetings to allow for intensive engagement. Details of the meetings will be advertised in various daily newspapers and on the City website www.joburg.org.za.
Ends
Issued on behalf of councilor Ruby Mathang
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Development in Johannesburg
By
Virgil James
Communications Specialist
City of Joburg
