In the bustling heart of Hilbrow, Johannesburg, a vividly colourful food shop stands out, enticing passersby with an array of mouth-watering meals. The advertising board invites hungry patrons to step inside for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s a sight designed to charm your senses.
Yet, in stark contrast, an undertaker is located right next door — a business venture worlds apart from the lively food establishment serving grilled dishes.
How on earth did Joburg town planners permit this bizarre and, some might argue, macabre arrangement? It’s difficult to fathom how such decisions were made, and it raises a whirlwind of questions about city governance and planning.
Were both these entirely different businesses granted operational licenses? If so, when, how, and most importantly, why? With the City of Gold in a state of decay, these inquiries echo even louder.
Recently, during a visit to Johannesburg, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his dismay at its deteriorating condition.
The metro police, known for their no-nonsense approach to by-law enforcement, regularly take action against illegal traders. They are often seen confiscating stock from those flouting regulations. But one has to wonder: Are they aware of this unusual neighbourhood arrangement? And what would they say about the health implications of a food shop sharing a wall with a funeral parlour?
According to Funeral Parlours SA, starting a funeral business requires adherence to stringent government regulations, including obtaining a Certificate of Competence. This process necessitates publishing two official notices in different languages in local newspapers and submitting a complete description of the premises. This includes a detailed block plan illustrating neighbouring premises and their respective uses. With such comprehensive requirements, the coexistence of these two starkly different businesses begs scrutiny.
This isn't an isolated incident.
Similar pairs of unrelated businesses have been spotted in places like Soweto, where, for instance, an undertaker operates near a fish and chips outlet. If the city is to revitalise itself and reclaim its former glory, it must address these glaring inconsistencies within its urban planning.