The George Local Municipality has passed a groundbreaking resolution to unlock the historic Crocodile Farm site for a mixed-use development, valued at approximately R1 billion. Situated in the Bo-Dorp area at the bottom of York Street, this highly sought-after prime land will be transformed through a long-term lease of at least 60 years to an accredited social housing institution.

This project aims to directly tackle spatial injustice by bringing low- to moderate-income households into well-located urban areas, drastically reducing commuting distances to employment, schools, and essential amenities.

Key Highlights of the Development:

• True Mixed-Use Integration: The precinct will feature a blend of social housing, a retail district, and slightly higher-end, market-related housing.
• Innovative Cross-Subsidization: By combining commercial and retail components with housing, a portion of the commercial profits will actively offset and subsidize the infrastructure and development costs of the social housing units.
• Target Income Group: The social housing component is designed to provide affordable, dignified housing for citizens earning between R1,850 and R22,000 per month (such as cleaners, teachers, and other essential workers).
• A Proven Blueprint: The project mirrors the successful structure of the Conradi Park development in Pinelands, Cape Town, serving as a model for how municipal, provincial, and national state entities can release public land to integrate communities.

What Happens Next?

Following the council’s resolution, the George Municipality is legally required under the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) to publicly release the land for a competitive tender process. Prospective private sector developers and social housing institutions will have the opportunity to submit proposals that align with the benchmark vision for the site. The municipality aims to roll out the tender process within the next four months, with the goal of officially appointing a developer by the end of 2026 or the first quarter of 2027 to begin breaking ground.

Listen to the full interview below to hear Katabella Pooe discuss how this landmark decision serves as a national blueprint for overcoming spatial apartheid through public-private collaboration.