News

Johannesburg's Barbican building, one of the city's best-known heritage sites, is to be restored, it has been announced.

The city council confirmed that the 77-year-old Barbican will be redeveloped soon as the building's owners, Old Mutual, expect to receive permission for their plans at the end of September.

Completed in 1931 in a mix of classic and art-deco styles, the ten-storey structure was originally built as a shop, tearoom and office building, but by the time Old Mutual bought it in 1995 it had fallen into disrepair.

Architect Robin Fee explained that the Barbican had deteriorated simply though a lack of maintenance.

He added: 'It is an iconic heritage building. It is very lucky to have survived.'

The Barbican is located on the corner of President and Rissik streets, close to another tourist attraction, the Palace building, which was built in 1889.

Its restoration will also incorporate development of four adjoining blocks to the north-west, which are also owned by Old Mutual. The improvement of the Barbican will focus on the exterior and interior of the building.

Opodo cheap flights, hotels and car hire - let the journey begin!