Tragic George Building Collapse Site Set For Auction After 18 Months

Eighteen months after the devastating George building collapse that claimed 34 lives, the site at 75 Victoria Road is heading to auction.

The disaster, which struck in May last year, also left 28 workers seriously injured when a five-storey structure came crashing down, trapping 62 people beneath more than 6,000 tonnes of debris.

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An investigation by the Council for the Built Environment (CBE) concluded that the developer, contractor, and engineer shared responsibility for the collapse. The developer, Neo Victoria Developments, has since gone into liquidation.

Online bidding for the site will open at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, 25 November, and close at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, 26 November, managed by Van’s Auctioneers.

George Building Collapse Site Expected to Fetch Up to R7 Million

According to Van’s Auctioneers CEO Martin Pretorius, the property has been valued at R12 million, but it is anticipated to sell for between R6 million and R7 million.

Pretorius described the upcoming sale as bittersweet, acknowledging the tragedy associated with the location.

“The fact that there was a tragedy on the property is a sad phase; we all know the history. But the punchline is that we are selling a site, maybe it’s too soon to rebuild, but once again that’s an emotional question,” he said.

Prime Location Offers Major Development Potential

Despite its tragic past, Pretorius noted that the land remains highly desirable due to its position within George’s Central Business District.

“It’s a great development opportunity for residential flats within the CBD and within walking distance of public transport,” he added.

The auction marks a somber yet significant moment for the local community, as one of the town’s darkest chapters transitions into a potential new beginning.

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