The Nelson Mandela Bridge is a striking structure. Pylons at each end reach for the sky, massive cables keep it stable. But its real significance is that its construction marks yet another attempt to revive Johannesburg's city centre. From a distance, downtown Johannesburg looks impressive, a collection of skyscrapers and neon lights. The reality is much more depressing. Over the past fifteen years, big business has fled to the northern suburbs. Many of the skyscrapers are abandoned, leaving squatters, crime and urban decay. Now, the city authorities argue that they have brought crime under control with a network of close-circuit TV cameras. Business occupancy rates are rising and a huge investment has been made in the Newtown area, intended as a vibrant cultural centre and home to the famous Market Theatre. The Nelson Mandela Bridge connects Newtown with the north. In effect, it enables rich, predominantly white South Africans to enjoy a quick and safe drive into the city centre. The bridge may succeed in bringing South Africans of all races closer, something Nelson Mandela has tried to do throughout his long life.