MRA Meeting Summary - July 2025
Date: Monday, 7 July 2025
Venue: 34 4th Avenue, Melville
Time: 18:00
Overview
The Melville Residents’ Association (MRA) meeting on 7 July 2025 focused on a number of important topics affecting the suburb, including compliance, safety, development planning, and resident engagement.
One of the key discussions centred around the Gauteng Liquor Board’s suspension of Smoking Kills’ liquor license for 60 days due to a lack of a valid license. Environmental noise complaints—especially along 7th Avenue—were also highlighted, and the MRA reaffirmed its commitment to fair enforcement of regulations and community safety without targeting specific businesses unfairly.
Concerns about the proposed development of the Greenside Bowling Club were shared, particularly relating to its scale (25,000m²), potential impact on water resources, and traffic. Updates on water infrastructure projects, budget constraints, and the broader Johannesburg water crisis were also discussed.
The MRA emphasised the importance of collaboration between residents, the Melville Business Association (MBA), and the City to address growing challenges including illegal structures, business compliance, and property disputes. Further updates were shared on the Safe Streets application and ongoing efforts to secure 69% support for the West Melville area, currently sitting around 55%.
The meeting concluded with discussions around the city’s interim decision process, resident objections, and the legal grey areas affecting road maintenance—especially along 3rd and 8th Streets.
Key Topics Covered
Liquor Licensing and Noise Compliance
Smoking Kills’ liquor license suspended for 60 days due to a compliance issue.
Emphasis placed on resolving licensing and noise concerns through official channels.
Updates on other liquor license objections, including 27 Boxes.
Environmental Health and Water Infrastructure
Ongoing noise complaints from 7th Avenue residents.
Slow progress from Environmental Health to conduct nighttime inspections.
Water infrastructure challenges due to City budget constraints; new reservoir expected to take 3 years.
Greenside Development & Heritage Concerns
Concerns raised over the Greenside Bowling Club’s redevelopment plans.
The potential impact on heritage assets, water, and traffic was noted.
MRA will provide feedback once further details are reviewed.
Safe Streets Initiative
Updates on application for West Melville; currently at ~55% support.
Committee members continue to canvas to reach 69% threshold.
City’s legal department not processing demolition orders due to internal delays.
Property and Business Compliance
Discussion on non-compliant businesses and zoning issues.
Updates on problematic properties (e.g., 34 Second Avenue and the bakery at 33 Second Avenue).
The need for proper planning, lawfulness, and respectful neighbour relations was emphasised.
Community Engagement & Collaboration
MRA reiterated the value of communication with local businesses and residents.
Suggested that the MBA assist local businesses in achieving compliance.
Collaborative strategies encouraged to solve common problems across Melville.
Application Status, Objections & Legal Constraints
UJ properties have voted on the Safe Streets application, but quorum not yet reached.
Significant resistance from some Western area residents is impacting progress.
Challenges discussed around road repair authority (JRA vs. Joburg Water).
Main road repair (e.g., potholes on Eighth & Third) constrained by legal barriers.
Action Items
MRA to monitor 27 Boxes license application and provide feedback.
MRA to liaise with Environmental Health about 7th Avenue noise complaints.
MRA to review and respond to development plans for Greenside and Marks Park.
Tony to continue engagement with Smoking Kills on compliance steps.
MRA to follow up with legal department on ongoing property zoning issue.
Committee to continue canvassing for West Melville Safe Streets support.
The MRA thanks all residents, committee members, and the MBA for their contributions and encourages continued engagement to keep Melville thriving.
