Elias Nkabinde
The City of Johannesburg’s Transport Department, through the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), is progressing with the development of a precinct plan for the establishment of the Archbishop Desmond Tutu Precinct and its surrounding areas.
This 12-month initiative forms part of the City’s Inner-City Urban Regeneration Programme. It aims to transform a key section of the inner city into a more accessible, inclusive, and vibrant urban environment.
Anchored by the historic St Mary’s Cathedral, the precinct is envisioned as a space that both honours the legacy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and supports social, cultural, and economic activity in the heart of Johannesburg.
As part of the planning process, the City will review the current precinct and transport context, refine the overarching urban development concept, and assess the anticipated impact of the precinct on mobility and movement patterns.
Sophie De Bruyn Street bounds the study area to the north, Claim and Mooi streets to the east, Harrison Street to the west, and Commissioner Street to the south, covering Wards 59, 60, 123, and 124.
At the core of the plan is a commitment to place people at the centre of development. The precinct will prioritise walkability, accessibility, and integrated transport, while strengthening public spaces and improving safety, dignity, and environmental sustainability.
The plan will further promote economic inclusion by creating a supportive environment for local businesses, traders, and cultural activity, ensuring the precinct becomes a catalyst for shared growth.
A key outcome of the project is the development of a practical Implementation Plan and Urban Management Plan. These will guide how the precinct is activated, maintained, and managed over time—ensuring that planning efforts translate into tangible, lasting improvements for residents, commuters, businesses, and visitors.
The Tutu Precinct represents a significant milestone in Johannesburg’s ongoing efforts to reshape the inner city into a place of connection and opportunity. It pays tribute to one of South Africa’s most revered moral leaders and global champions of peace, justice, and reconciliation.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu played a pivotal role in South Africa’s transition to democracy and remained a steadfast advocate for human dignity, equality, and social cohesion throughout his life. By integrating transport infrastructure, public realm enhancements, and heritage preservation, the City seeks to create a living tribute to its values—one that reflects a more equitable, people-centred, and resilient future for Johannesburg.
