The City of Joburg in partnership with Johannesburg Road Agency (JRA), have announced the partial reopening of Lillian Ngoyi Street, formerly known as Bree Street, following a catastrophic underground gas explosion.
The street was shut down in July 2023 after the explosion ripped through several blocks, severely damaging infrastructure and disrupting transport routes and businesses.
During the media launch on Monday (September 1), Executive Mayor Dada Morero confirmed that the street has been designed to accommodate vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.
“While pedestrians are free to use the road from today, it will only be open to vehicles from 12 .September 2025,” the mayor said.
Phase 2 has now begun and has been expected to be completed by August 2026.
The Mayor added that the project has been delivered within the allocated budget, and momentum is now shifting to commence work on Phase Two.
“The completion of Phase One of the Lilian Ngoyi Rehabilitation Project is more than an infrastructural milestone; it embodies our dedication to cultivating community pride, elevating living standards and advancing the socio-economic development of our city. Our goal is to create public spaces where everyone can thrive.”
Motorists will no longer be permitted to park along the street, as former parking spaces have been converted into pedestrian walkways.
The City of Johannesburg says it remains committed to executing projects that improve residents’ quality of life and to positioning the city as a dynamic, accessible and culturally vibrant urban centre.
