Residents across Region F called for urgent action during the City of Johannesburg's online Integrated Development Planning (IDP) consultation session on 14 April 2026.
The session, led by Cllr Tefo Raphadu, Chair of the Section 79 Committee for Corporate and Shared Services, brought together residents and city leadership to reflect on progress and shape future priorities. Emphasising the importance of public participation, Cllr Raphadu encouraged residents to contribute to the draft IDP and the proposed rates and tariffs adjustments.
“These sessions are an opportunity to update communities on projects underway in their areas, while also ensuring their voices guide future planning," Cllr Raphadu said.
MMC for Development Planning Cllr Eunice Mgcina outlined the City's vision through “The People's Plan", which is a collaborative approach aimed at building a city that works for all.
“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."
Her presentation detailed the current state of service delivery in Region F, highlighting progress on several capital projects. Among them, the Inner City Distribution Substation Refurbishment at Van Beek is now 65% complete, while upgrades at Settlers Park including fountain refurbishment and bulk electrical works are nearing completion at 85%. The upgrade of Phineas McIntosh Park has been fully completed.
Despite these developments, residents raised concerns ranging from unreliable water supply and deteriorating roads to illegal electricity connections, crime, homelessness, and the proliferation of informal settlements and illegal buildings. Many residents also expressed frustration over delayed responses from city departments and ongoing infrastructure vandalism.
A resident from Ward 56, Gavin Dennis, described worsening road conditions in Turffontein, La Rochelle, and Springfield, noting that some roads have become nearly undrivable. He also pointed to missing traffic lights and persistent water leaks in Glenvista, particularly along Van Beek Street, where some leaks have gone unrepaired for months.
A Ward 58 resident drew attention to the deteriorating conditions at old age homes across the region. The resident described a lack of maintenance and insufficient security, warning that elderly residents are increasingly vulnerable.
MMC for Human Settlements Cllr Mlungisi Mabaso acknowledged the challenges facing old age homes. He said the City has encountered contractual delays affecting the provision of security services, but assured residents that a procurement process is currently underway.
Residents are encouraged to submit comments by clicking here by 18 May 2026.
Written by Dudu Lushaba
15/04/2026
Recommended for you:
Useful IDP 2026 documents
Joburg Council tables draft 2026/27 IDP for public participation
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