City readying itself for Springboks vs. All Blacks game on Saturday
By CityLife Arts Writer
Johannesburg’s Urban East area is undergoing a significant transformation as the city prepares to host a major international rugby test match at Emirates Airline Park on Saturday, 31 August. The event, which will see the Springboks face off against the All Blacks in The Rugby Championship, has sparked a flurry of activity in the Ellis Park precinct, with the city pulling out all the stops to ensure the venue and its surroundings are in top condition.
Floyd Brink, City Manager for the City of Johannesburg, emphasized the city’s commitment to ensuring the precinct is ready for the influx of visitors.
“Multi-disciplinary teams from different city entities and departments have been working hard to promptly address service delivery issues in and around the Ellis Park precinct ahead of the upcoming rugby game. Our goal is to ensure that the area is clean, safe, and ready to welcome all visitors,” said Brink.
Stephen du Preez, founder of LocalAbode and project lead for the Urban East District Alliance under the Jozi My Jozi initiative, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the collaborative efforts between public and private entities.
“It’s wonderful to see how the City of Joburg, the Jozi My Jozi movement, Lions Rugby Union, the stadium management, and various corporates have all come together to give this area a much-needed facelift,” he said.
The revitalization efforts include the installation of over 380 solar lights around the precinct, aimed at enhancing night visibility and safety for residents and visitors. Brink acknowledged the importance of this initiative.
“The involvement of various stakeholders, including Jozi My Jozi, has been instrumental in facilitating the clean-up efforts, which also include the installation of solar lights to enhance safety and security.”
The Jozi My Jozi initiative has also overseen the beautification of the area, with renowned landscaper Greg Straw leading the charge in placemaking efforts. Infrastructure issues such as potholes, broken pavements, and street art enhancements are being addressed, along with increased street cleaning and a stronger law enforcement presence.
Irene Mafune, Regional Director of the Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (CRUM) Region F, emphasized the importance of the precinct due to its strategic partnerships with institutions like the University of Johannesburg and Johannesburg Central College Ellis Park campus. She assured that service delivery challenges, including faulty streetlights and burst pipes, are being addressed swiftly.
“This precinct holds great significance due to our active partnerships,” said Mafune.
Brink further underscored the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in addressing these challenges.
“The successful resolution of many challenges demonstrates the effectiveness of public-private partnerships,” he continued.
Together, we have the potential to restore the Inner City to its former glory.”
As the city prepares for the 60,000 rugby fans expected to fill the stadium, transport services are also being coordinated to ensure a smooth experience. A key highlight is the partnership between Gautrain and PRASA, offering free train rides from Park Station to Ellis Park for match ticketholders.
“This is certainly the easiest and most convenient way to access the stadium with the least stress and hassle,” du Preez noted.
The city’s efforts extend beyond match day, with du Preez underscoring the long-term commitment to maintaining the area.
“This area will be maintained, kept clean, brightly lit, and secure on an ongoing basis.”