Johannesburg – Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has announced that Lillian Ngoyi Street (formerly Bree Street) in the CBD will reopen next Friday, following nearly two years of closure after a methane gas explosion caused the road to collapse.
Repairs were delayed due to the original contractor failing to meet deadlines, which led to contract termination and additional costs for the city.
The restoration project included replacing worn-out underground pipes, resurfacing the street, and rehabilitating the underground tunnels.
Lilian Ngoyi Street is a critical commuter route & key access road to surrounding businesses & public service facilities.
Today, we are marking the end of Phase 1 project following an underground gas explosion in July 2023, delivering on our promise to all affected stakeholders. pic.twitter.com/K5kCYwW2Em
— Joburg Roads Agency (@MyJRA) September 1, 2025
Morero says the project is now complete and ready for vehicles, with only sidewalk work remaining, ensuring full use by motorists and pedestrians by 12 September.
Addressing journalists, Morero assured residents that there is no risk of another underground gas explosion.
“Our engineers and technicians are convinced that we will not have another explosion. They’ve made sure that the pipes and infrastructure underneath are restored. So, hopefully, we will not experience another explosion in the future,” he said.
Executive Mayor Cllr. @DadaMorero delivered the keynote address at the Phase 1 Lilian Ngoyi Street completion event this morning, reaffirming the City’s commitment to infrastructure development and economic growth. @CityofJoburgZA @RegionF_Joburg @GPDRT_ #LilianNgoyiReborn pic.twitter.com/RD6F6sUPMw
— Joburg Roads Agency (@MyJRA) September 1, 2025
The City of Johannesburg reportedly spent R82 million on restoring the street, with remaining funds set to improve the precinct further.
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Picture: X/@DadaMorero
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
