Johannesburg is to spend more than R1bn over the next four years on projects to stimulate the city's economy and social development, including a new transport system, power network, better parks, sports centre and theatre in Soweto.

The projects, dubbed "legacy projects" by mayor Amos Masondo, were intended to be completed in time for the 2010 Soccer World Cup but their benefits are expected to extend well beyond the event.

Masondo said on Monday the projects would ensure residents benefited from the economic investment and consumer spending during the soccer event.

"We are looking beyond 2010. Every facility we build, every rand we spend on infrastructure, will have lasting benefits for the people of Johannesburg," he said.

"Johannesburg will continue to enjoy the benefits of a more efficient transport system, better power, water and sanitation networks, safer community life, better parks, better sporting facilities, and a rejuvenated urban landscape."

Legacy projects will include a bus rapid transport system, new street furniture and benches for the inner city, greening of underdeveloped soccer fields, an indoor sports centre and theatre in Soweto and the eradication of informal settlements by 2015.

The Bus Rapid Transport facility will use a rail-like system running on a continuous route but can also operate on normal roads.

The system will extend services to a wider area of Johannesburg, allowing people to get to adjoining suburbs without having to go into the city centre.

Masondo said the new system was expected to be operational by 2009 when Johannesburg hosted the Confederation Cup of Nations.

The theatre and sports centre with Olympic-size pool and gymnastics hall in Orlando East would be near Orlando Stadium and part of a sports and education precinct being developed in the area. The theatre would consist of a stand-alone multiple theatre complex, cinema entertainment complex and smaller venues.

Masondo said more than 200 soccer fields in the city were identified for greening and upgrading in the next two to three years.

Business Day