The tragic collapse of an apartment building on Victoria Street in George, which led to several fatalities, has triggered multiple investigations by local authorities.
The building, still under construction in May, was the site of a catastrophic structural failure. As a result, investigations have been launched by the Western Cape Government, the South African Police Services (SAPS), and the Department of Employment and Labour.
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Responding to a debate on his opening address to the Western Cape Legislature, Premier Alan Winde indicated his willingness to establish a commission of inquiry should the ongoing investigations prove unsatisfactory. ”
I do have that power within the constitution. But I first must give the South African Police Services the space to do and complete their investigation. We are still waiting for that investigation,”
Winde stated. He also emphasized the role of the Department of Labour in ensuring adherence to building regulations, especially on construction sites.
Premier Winde confirmed that the provincial department recently received a preliminary report and that this report is currently under review. The outcomes will be discussed in the next cabinet meeting.
This review will help determine whether there is sufficient evidence to lay charges and hold those responsible for the collapse accountable. “Those who are complicit in the cause of this devastating collapse need to be brought to book,” he asserted.
The provincial government continues to provide support to the families affected by the collapse. Social workers from the Department of Social Development have been offering support since the incident occurred. “We will continue to make sure that support is there for them,” Winde assured.
Consulting Engineer Atholl Mitchell has been suspended by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) amidst ongoing investigations. His suspension will remain until a decision regarding possible charges or the completion of a disciplinary process is reached. The council’s investigation into Mitchell started in December 2023.
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According to the George local municipality, the building plan for the development had undergone prior scrutiny before approval on 6 July 2023.
The project was estimated at over R39 million, and construction had reached the stage of the concrete roof installation at the time of the collapse. The municipality revealed no record of previous safety violations by the developer within the George municipal area.
