City of Johannesburg Intensifies Inner-City Clean-Up with Marble Towers Demolition

The City of Johannesburg has stepped up its efforts to restore order in the inner city by beginning the demolition of illegal structures surrounding Marble Towers in the Johannesburg CBD. The operation follows a South Gauteng High Court order authorising the removal of the unlawful structures.

The demolition was led by Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero, who was joined by Members of the Mayoral Committee, including Cllrs Zungu, Sekwaila, Amad, Makhafola, Mnisi and Mgcina.

According to the City, the operation forms part of a broader initiative aimed at reclaiming the Johannesburg CBD, improving public safety and enforcing compliance with municipal by-laws.

Authorities have confirmed that similar enforcement operations will continue across the inner city on a precinct-by-precinct basis until illegal occupation and unauthorised structures have been addressed.

During the operation, law enforcement officers arrested one individual for allegedly obstructing officials while they carried out the court-sanctioned demolition. The suspect was taken to the local police station.

City officials also met with traders operating from the affected structures. Several business owners said they had not received sufficient notice from the property owner to remove their stock before the demolition commenced. To minimise losses, officials allowed the traders to retrieve their goods while demolition teams continued with the removal of the remaining illegal structures.

Due to the size and complexity of the operation, demolition work is expected to continue on 16 July 2026 until all structures identified in the court order have been cleared.

The City of Johannesburg says the operation reflects its commitment to restoring law and order in the CBD while creating a cleaner, safer and more organised environment for residents, businesses and visitors. Officials have reiterated that by-law enforcement operations will continue as part of the City’s long-term strategy to revitalise the inner city.