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Author: Chantel Edwards

UNPLANNED WATER OUTAGE -CBD, Tamsui, Pacaltsdorp and Herold’s Bay

At around 23:00 last night the municipality was alerted of a pipe burst on the 1000mm diameter bulk water pipeline at the Tennis Courts at CJ Langenhoven Road.A team was dispatched and immediately, isolated the pipeline and started excavations to locate the damaged section.

An assessment of the damage was done, with repairs scheduled to commence this morning .

ETR -A tthis point an expected time of repair is unknown.

Parts of the CBD, Tamsui Industrial Area, Pacaltsdorp and Herold’s Bay might experience low pressure and some areas no water.
George Municipality appeals to consumers in the affected areas to please use water sparingly while we try to resolve this matter

Report water Outages/ Burst pipes AFTER-HOURS AND EMERGENCIES 044 801 6300 or 044 801 9262/6 or 044 801 9354 (7.45am-4.30pm)

We thank the public for their patience and apologise for any inconvenience caused.

George Municipality Extends Level 2D Water Demand Management Measures and Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs to Uniondale and Haarlem

George Municipality has extended the implementation of Level 2D Water Demand Management Measures and Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs to Uniondale and Haarlem with immediate effect from today, 9 January 2026, following critically low raw water availability in both areas as a result of ongoing below-average rainfall. The Haarlem Dam was at 30,45% on 7 January 2026. While these towns were initially excluded from earlier restriction measures, current water supply conditions now require immediate intervention to protect potable water availability and ensure continuity of essential services.

Haarlem Water Supply Situation
The Haarlem Dam, which supplies raw water to the Haarlem Water Treatment Works, has reached critically low levels. Inflows to the treatment works have dropped significantly, resulting in insufficient potable water to meet current demand. This constitutes an emergency situation requiring urgent water demand management measures.

Uniondale Water Supply Situation
Uniondale’s primary source of supply is the Kammanassie River, which is also dependent on rainfall within the same severely impacted catchment. In addition, the Haarlem–Uniondale raw water pipeline, which can normally provide backup supply to Uniondale during periods of shortage, is no longer available due to the low level of the Haarlem Dam. Uniondale is therefore equally vulnerable and subject to the same restrictions.

The implementation of these measures is undertaken in terms of the George Municipality’s Water Services By-law to Limit or Restrict the Use of Water, which allows for immediate restrictions in emergency situations where sufficient water is not available.

With immediate effect, Level 2D Water Demand Management Measures and Level 3 Emergency Water Tariffs, as currently applicable in George, now also apply to Uniondale and Haarlem, including but not limited to:

  • Each household shall be limited to a maximum of 10 kL per month;
  • Other users, businesses, and the entertainment industries shall reduce consumption by 25% of the average use over a similar six-month period. Failure to comply will result in a fine as published in the annual tariffs list;
  • Industries shall reduce consumption by 15% of the average use over a similar six-month period. Failure to comply will result in a fine as published in the annual tariffs list;
  • The irrigation or watering of sports fields with potable water is prohibited;
  • The filling of any and all swimming pools with potable water is prohibited;
  • The use of hoses by private individuals or car wash businesses is prohibited, and vehicles may only be washed using buckets, unless water is supplied from an alternative source other than municipal potable water. This applies to all commercial entities;
  • No hosing of structures, roofs, or any other objects is permissible using municipal water;
  • Flow-reducing devices shall be installed where the above limits are exceeded. Except for registered indigent households, offenders will be charged for the cost of installation;
  • The Municipality will monitor consumers and identify those who do not comply with the restrictions;
  • Gardens may only be watered using watering cans or buckets, at any time of day, unless own water and not municipal potable water is used;
  • Any person who contravenes these restrictions is guilty of an offence and, upon conviction, is liable to a fine as published in the annual tariffs list or to imprisonment for a period of up to six months;
  • Secondary offenders will be liable to an additional fine as published in the annual tariffs list;
  • No municipal potable water may be used for construction purposes. Contractors may submit an application to the Directorate: Civil Engineering Services if an alternative non-municipal supply is not available;
  • On properties where use is made of own water, such as from a borehole or rainwater tank, a clear notice with the words “OWN WATER” must be displayed on the property.

The Garden Route District Municipality’s Disaster Management Centre has convened a multi-stakeholder task team, including neighbouring affected towns and the Department of Local Government, to coordinate drought response measures across the region.

“These actions are necessary to stabilise water supply systems and protect communities from more severe disruptions,” said Acting Municipal Manager Bevan Ellman. “Uniondale and Haarlem are now facing the same water scarcity pressures as George, and water must be managed carefully across the entire municipal area.”

Residents and businesses in Uniondale and Haarlem are urged to comply fully with the restrictions and to use water sparingly. Further updates will be communicated should conditions change.

“Hierdie stappe is noodsaaklik om watervoorsieningstelsels te stabiliseer en gemeenskappe teen ernstiger ontwrigtings te beskerm,” het die Waarnemende Munisipale Bestuurder, Bevan Ellman, gesê. “Uniondale en Haarlem ervaar nou dieselfde waterskaarste-druk as George, en water moet versigtig oor die hele munisipale gebied bestuur word.”

Inwoners en besighede in Uniondale en Haarlem word dringend versoek om volledig aan die beperkings te voldoen en water spaarsamig te gebruik. Verdere opdaterings sal gekommunikeer word indien toestande verander.

 

WARM WEATHER ALERT – ENJOY THE FINAL SCHOOL HOLIDAY WEEKEND SAFELY

Lifeguard services will be active daily from 1 December 2024 to 31 January 2025

Residents and visitors are encouraged to enjoy the final weekend of the school holidays, as warm weather is expected across the George municipal area.
As families make the most of the outdoors, George Municipality reminds everyone to take a few simple precautions to stay safe and comfortable.

Please keep the following in mind:

  • If you’re travelling, hiking or spending time outdoors, carry sufficient drinking water, wear sunscreen and hats, and take regular breaks in the shade.
  • Beach conditions are expected to be moderate, and all beachgoers are urged to exercise caution.
  • Anglers and fishermen, whether fishing from the rocks or from the beach, should remain alert to changing sea conditions and avoid dangerous areas.
  • Lifeguards will be on duty at all designated swimming beaches — please swim only in marked areas and follow lifeguard instructions.
  • Parents and caregivers are reminded to keep a close eye on children at all times.
  • As a reminder, the consumption of alcohol is not permitted on beaches or in public areas.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS
National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) – Station 23, Wilderness Beach: 082 990 5955
George Fire Department: 044 803 6311
Toll-Free Disaster Number: 087 152 9999
George Municipality After-Hours Emergency Line: 044 803 6300

The George Municipality wishes all residents and visitors a safe, relaxed and enjoyable final holiday weekend, and thanks the community for working together to keep everyone safe.

Planning and Partnership Ensure Safe Festive Season in George

Extensive planning, strong inter-agency cooperation and coordinated internal operations contributed to a safe and successful 2025/26 festive season in George, with municipal services responding effectively to high visitor numbers and peak holiday activity. The George Municipality once again worked closely with Provincial Traffic, NSRI, SAPS, Community Policing Forums and forensic services, while internal directorates operated in a coordinated manner throughout the festive period to ensure public safety, coastal management, traffic control and emergency response readiness.

Acting Municipal Manager, Mr Godfrey Louw, thanked all officials and partners for their dedication “The success of the festive season reflects solid planning, teamwork and the commitment shown by municipal staff and our partners under demanding conditions.”

The Executive Mayor praised the collective effort saying, “Despite exceptionally busy periods, the 2025/26 festive season was managed with minimal incidents. This is a clear reflection of effective planning, collaboration and responsible behaviour by both residents and visitors. We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this a successful festive season for George.”

Reporting period: 1 December 2025 – 5 January 2026

Beaches & Public Facilities
Blue Flag Beaches

George’s internationally recognised Blue Flag beaches, including Wilderness Beach ,Herold’s Bay Beach and Victoria Bay, Leentjiesklip Beach (pilot blue flag beach) and Gwaing River Mouth and Beach  (Green Coast), operated under heightened safety, environmental and operational standards throughout the festive period, supported by lifeguards and emergency services.

Beachgoers (including SANParks Lagoon, Wilderness Main, Leentjiesklip, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Gwaing River Mouth and Beach,  Conville Public Swimming Pool and Gwaing Day Camp Swimming Pool)  – Total Visitor Volumes
Total recorded beachgoers (13 December 2025 – 5 January 2026): ±214 407 visitors

Figures reflect monitored beaches and facilities only. Visitor numbers for early December are not included, and actual festive-period totals are therefore higher.Peak Day Comparisons

Date 2024 Visitors 2025 Visitors
25 December 26 592 18 139
26 December 25 878 14 218
29 December 24 390 11 889
 

New Year’s Day peak:

  • 1 January 2025: 42 578
  • 1 January 2026: 29 049

NSRI Beach Activities
Beach Visitors per day                   +-720 – 800
Swimmers per day                          +_ 240 – 320
Average Preventions                      +_ 28 per day
(including rip current warnings, hazard prevention and water safety guidance)

Total Operational Incidents 42
– First Aid / Minor Medical 29
– Non-Fatal Rescues/ Swim Assists 9
Medical Escalations 3
Non -Fatal Drowning-related 1

 

Emergency Services
Fire, Rescue & Medical Response

Incident Type Count
Fire incidents (all categories) 167
Motor vehicle accidents 44
Rescue operations (water & confined space) 5
Aquatic operations 1
Hazmat (environmental) 1
Miscellaneous 5

 

Social Services
27 households assisted with hampers, blankets, mattresses and toiletries
3 Pauper Burials

Law Enforcement
Alcohol Control & Compliance

  • Alcohol confiscated:
    • December 2025: 206 litres
    • January 2026 (to 5 Jan): 116 litres
  • Arrests: 1

Strict enforcement of the festive-season alcohol regulations, together with the prohibition of fireworks, contributed to reduced public disturbances, injuries and fire-related incidents.

Traffic Management
Traffic operations were conducted in collaboration with Provincial Traffic and SAPS, with targeted enforcement, roadblocks and visibility in high-traffic corridors and coastal access routes.

Vehicle Check Points 15
Driving Under Influence 26
Reckless/Negligent Driving 1
Other Arrest 1
Impounding 39
Documentation
(Drivers Licence, MVR, PDP etc)		 481
Moving Violations
(Disregard Traffic Lights, Stop Signs, Road Signs and Markings, Inconsiderate Driving, 		910
Speed Offences 30132
Vehicle Fitness 203
Fatalities 8

Planning & Development
Building Control

Category Total
New applications in circulation 93
Building plans processed 249
Approved building plans 86
Certificates of Occupancy issued 388
Inspections conducted 739
Complaints addressed 17

Housing & Land Use Management

Land use contravention inspections

 

 15
Notices served 5
Notices resolved
2
Municipal emergency structures built 1 household
Households assisted with second-hand materials for construction 4 households

GO GEORGE Public Transport
Passenger Trips – December Comparison

Year Passenger Trips
2022 430 872
2023 480 854
2024 488 064
2025 484 706

 Public Enquiries

  • Call Centre enquiries (5 weeks): 893
  • Email enquiries: 63

George Fire and Disaster Services Assists at Mossel Bay Fire

On Tuesday 6 January 2026, George Fire and Disaster Services deployed our 35,000-litre water tanker and a skid unit to assist Mossel Bay Fire and Rescue with firefighting operations. The tanker provides essential water supply, while the skid unit supports suppression efforts in difficult terrain.

Officials deployed include Platoon Commander Henry Ciko and Firefighters Nico Rossouw, Joseph Fortuin and Laurent Saaiman.

George Fire and Disaster Services has withdrawn as of 7:30am but remain available for any further assistance as required.

Acting Municipal Manager Bevan Ellman thanked the fire officials for their assistance to Mossel Bay and sent a message of support to all residents of Mossel Bay affected by the devastating blaze.

START THE SCHOOL YEAR READY TO RIDE

As families gear up for the start of the 2026 academic year, many parents are already bracing themselves for the familiar rush of school day transport. For learners who rely on the GO GEORGE bus service, a little preparation now sets them up for a smooth return to routine. A GO GEORGE Smart Card is essential for travelling on the system. Parents are encouraged to get cards sorted early, load enough trips before school starts, and keep an eye on balances throughout the term.
The Smart Card works just like cash: if it’s lost, the trips loaded onto it cannot be refunded or transferred, so it should be handled with care.

Smart Cards are available at kiosks located at the Transport Hub in Cradock Street, Blanco Triangle, Garden Route Mall, and Nelson Mandela Boulevard in Thembalethu. Two mobile kiosks will also rotate between Protea Road in Pacaltsdorp, New Dawn Park Primary School, the Eve bus stop in Rosedale, Cheap Foods in Nelson Mandela Boulevard near Parkdene, and the Jonga circle in Thembalethu. For the exact location of a mobile kiosk at any given time, scroll down on https://www.gogeorge.org.za/fares-cards, or phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044.

School route maps and on the ground support
During the first few weeks of the term, GO GEORGE communication champions will be stationed at bus stops near high schools especially. They’ll be sharing details of school specific route maps and help learners understand the different travel options available to them.
Each school has its own customised map showing the best routes to and from school. These can also be downloaded from the GO GEORGE website at www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes.

Digital tools to help learners plan
The GO GEORGE website offers interactive timetables and a stop explorer tool, making it easy for passengers to plan their own trips.

Passenger education on the use of the newly introduced GO GEORGE chat bot will also kick off later this month. The user-friendly GoBot offers quick answers and guidance online, in addition to the existing information resources.

Learners are encouraged to chat with the champions about the best boarding times, routes and transfer points. In many cases, there are alternative options that help avoid the busiest peak time buses.

To stay on top of urgent alerts that affect the bus service, learners and parents are invited to subscribe to the GO GEORGE WhatsApp channel.
GO GEORGE welcomes opportunities to speak directly with learners and staff. Schools can request an on site visit by calling 0800 044 044 or emailing info@gogeorge.org.za.

PUBLIC NOTICE: UPDATE 7 – SEWER MAIN REPAIR & ROAD CLOSURE CNR KNYSNA ROAD & MADIBA DRIVE

Following the sewer mainline failure on 22 December 2025, the intersection of Knysna Road and Madiba Drive remains fully closed.

Work on the permanent repair of the sewer main is now underway as scheduled. All required materials have been secured, and the appointed contractor is on site conducting preparatory works.

These include further excavation of the affected area, locating and safeguarding existing underground services, and protecting the critical Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) water main that was exposed over the weekend.

This preparatory phase is essential to prevent service interruptions, mitigate risk to surrounding infrastructure, and ensure safe working conditions during construction.

As part of the permanent solution, a new manhole is being constructed on the existing sewer line and is progressing satisfactorily.

Final planning for the sewer switchover will be completed once all services have been fully identified and the damaged section of pipe has been completely exposed and assessed.

At present, the switchover is provisionally scheduled for the latter part of the week, outside of peak hours and subject to favourable weather conditions, to reduce the impact of elevated wastewater flows from the catchment area.

The intersection will remain closed until further notice.
The public is advised to avoid the area and use the approved detour routes.
Motorists are urged to drive with caution and comply with all traffic signage and directions from officials on site.

Further updates will be issued should there be any change to the current status.

UPDATE 5 – Sewer Main Repair and Road Closure – Cnr Knysna Rd and Madiba Drive

Following the sewer mainline failure on 22 December 2025, the intersection of Knysna Road and Madiba Drive remains fully closed and has been secured as an active construction site with proper barricades in place.

A temporary sewer solution is operational, and the Municipality is currently sourcing materials required to replace the damaged sewer line in January.
The intersection will remain closed until further notice.

The public is advised to avoid the area and make use of the approved detour routes.
Motorists are urged to proceed with caution and follow all traffic signage and instructions.

Further communication will be issued should the situation change.

New Platinum Citizen Portal for viewing of Monthly Accounts

The George Municipality is pleased to announce the launch of the updated Platinum Citizen Portal, designed to give residents easy access to view and manage their municipal account information.

Important Information

  • The portal will be active from 12:00 on 24 December 2025, after December billing statements have been issued. Residents will not be able to view statements before this time.
  • Only new account numbers must be used when registering on the portal. The use of old account numbers may result in access errors.
  • A video help guide is available to assist residents with registration and navigation of the portal. The updated video has been published on the George Municipality YouTube channel and can be accessed here: https://tinyurl.com/3evu6dn3
  • Once registered, residents can view, download and print their municipal statements via the Platinum Citizen Portal which is accessed via the ACCOUNTS VIEW button on the website – https://www.george.gov.za/
  • For further assistance, contact the municipality at accounts@george.gov.za or call 044 801 9111 during office hours.

Payment Options – George Municipality

  • Download the My Smart City app, register and pay once your account is verified.
  • Pay directly into George Municipality’s bank account (use your new GRG account number as reference).
  • Pay at Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Boxer, Game, Spar, Pep, Ackermans, Shoprite and Usave or in person at municipal facilities. Pay by scanning the barcode on your municipal account statement.


OPENBARE KENNISGEWING: NUWE PLATINUM BURGERPORTAAL VIR MAANDELIKSE REKENINGSTATE

Die George Munisipaliteit kondig met trots die bekendstelling van die opgedateerde Platinum Burgerportaal aan, wat inwoners maklike toegang bied om hul munisipale rekeninginligting te sien en te bestuur.

 Belangrike Inligting

  • Die portaal sal vanaf 12:00 op 24 Desember 2025 aktief wees, nadat die Desember-rekeningstate uitgereik is. Inwoners sal nie voor hierdie tyd hul state kan sien nie.
  • Slegs nuwe rekeningnommers moet gebruik word wanneer op die portaal geregistreer word. Die gebruik van ou rekeningnommers kan toegangsfoute veroorsaak.
  • ’n Video-gidshulp is beskikbaar om inwoners te help met registrasie en navigasie van die portaal. Die opgedateerde video is op die George Munisipaliteit se YouTube-kanaal beskikbaar en kan hier gekyk word: https://tinyurl.com/3evu6dn3
  • Nadat hulle geregistreer het, kan inwoners hul munisipale rekeningstate sien, aflaai en druk via die Platinum Burgerportaal toeganklik deur die ACCOUNTS VIEW knoppie: https://www.george.gov.za/
  • Vir verdere hulp, kontak die munisipaliteit by accounts@george.gov.za of skakel 044 801 9111 gedurende kantoorure.

Betalingsopsies – George Munisipaliteit

  •  Laai die My Smart City-toepassing af, registreer en betaal sodra jou rekening geverifieer is.
  • Betaal direk in George Munisipaliteit se bankrekening (gebruik jou nuwe GRG-rekeningnommer as verwysing).
  • Betaal by Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Boxer, Game, Spar, Pep, Ackermans, Shoprite en Usave of of persoonlik by munisipale fasiliteite. Gebruik die strepies-kode op jou munisipale rekeningstaat.

UPDATE 4: ROAD CLOSURE & SEWER FAILURE – CNR KNYSNA ROAD & MADIBA DRIVE

A major sewer mainline failure last night, has resulted in the formation of a sinkhole, compromising the structural integrity of the intersection at Knysna Road and Madiba Drive (close to Pine Lodge). The damage affects the entire intersection footprint, requiring specialist assessment and investigation before permanent repairs can commence.

A temporary connection was installed overnight to accommodate sewer flow and prevent further system overload while long-term repair options are being evaluated.

At this stage, no final Estimated Time of Repair (ETR) can be confirmed. Technical teams are on site and actively investigating permanent repair solutions. Further updates will be issued as soon as more information becomes available.

Road Closures

  •  The intersection of Knysna Road and Madiba Drive remains fully closed
  • One lane of Knysna Road, in the direction of the Garden Route Mall, remains closed
  • Traffic Services and Law Enforcement remain on site to manage traffic flow and ensure public safety

Approved Detour Routes:

  • No entry from Knysna Road (George / Garden Route Mall direction) into Madiba Drive
  • No left turn from Pine Lodge exit.

Detour Options (See attached graphic)

  • Madiba Drive → Zondagh Street → Rijk Tulbach Street → 5th Street → Knysna Road
  • Clear detour signage and concrete barricades are in place.
  • Motorists are urged to reduce speed, exercise caution and follow all traffic signage and instructions from officials on site.

Further updates will be communicated as information becomes available.

PUBLIC NOTICE: Water Scarce Awareness Material Available – Download & Print

As water demand management measures remain in place at 2C, the George Municipality encourages all businesses to help promote responsible water use. Water Scarce Awareness and Water Saving Tip artwork is available on our website. Businesses are welcome to download and print these materials for display in areas such as reception areas, gyms, change rooms, restrooms, staff rooms and notice boards.

💧 The material includes Practical water-saving tips | Awareness posters and artwork | Information to encourage water-wise behaviour among staff and customers
📍 Access the material here: https://www.george.gov.za/civil-engineering/water/water-saving-tips/

By displaying these materials, businesses can play an important role in supporting the community’s efforts to save water and protect our limited resources.

NOTICE: GMN013/25-26, ADJUSTMENT BUDGET 24 NOVEMBER 2025

KENNISGEWING: GMN013/25-26

2025/26 FINANSIëLE JAAR
AANSUIWERINGSBEGROTING 24 NOVEMBER 2025

Kennis geskied hiermee ingevolge Artikel 28 van die Wet op Plaaslike Regering: Munisipale Finansiële Bestuur, 2003 (Wet no.56 van 2003) en Artikel 23 van die Munisipale Begrotings en Verslagdoening Regulasies 2008 onderskeidelik, dat die Aansuiweringsbegroting goedgekeur is tydens die Raadsvergadering van 24 November 2025.

Die dokument sal beskikbaar wees vir publieke inspeksie op die munisipale webtuiste, www.george.gov.za, vanaf 13 Desember 2025.

Lede van die publiek word uitgenooi om skriftelike kommentaar by die munisipaliteit in te dien met betrekking tot die dokument. Alle kommentaar en insae moet gerig word aan “Die Munisipale Bestuurder, George Munisipaliteit, Yorkstraat 71, George 6530”.

Kontak gerus die Begrotingsbestuurder, Me Le-Anne Maksella by 044 801 9122 vir enige verdere navrae.
_________________________________________________________________________

NOTICE: GMN013/25-26

2025/26 FINANCIAL YEAR
ADJUSTMENT BUDGET 24 NOVEMBER 2025
Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 28 of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act no.56 of 2003) and Section 23 of the Municipal Budgets and Reporting Regulations 2008 respectively, that the Adjustment Budget was approved during the Council meeting held on 24 November 2025.

This document will be available for public inspection and comments on the municipal website www.george.gov.za, from 13 December 2025.

Members of the public are invited to submit written comments or representations to the municipality in respect of this document. All comments and inputs must be directed to “The Municipal Manager, George Municipality, 71 York Street, George 6530”.

Please contact the Budget Manager, Ms Le-Anne Maksella at 044 802 9122 with any enquiries.

 

REHABILITATION OF MISSION STREET, PACALTSDORP: PROGRESS UPDATE

The rehabilitation of Mission Street, Pacaltsdorp, has reached a major milestone and at 15h00 on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, both lanes are now open for two-way traffic between Clinic and Protea Street (West).

Work Currently Underway Along Mission Street:
• Trimming of sidewalks
• Paving of the furniture zone
• Erection of road signage
• Making the site safe and removing all debris and materials from site

Annual Builders’ Break Notice:
• The site will close for the annual builders’ holiday on Friday, 12 December 2025, and will reopen on Monday, 12 January 2026 and will remain the responsibility of the Contractor until a completion inspection with the Municipality is done.
• In 2026, it might be required that portions of the road between Clinic and Protea Street will be closed with temporary “Stop & Go’s” as needed to attend to outstanding Universal Access (UA) related work on sidewalks, minor defects (if any) and further trimming work along the sidewalks and road verges will continue.

George Municipality apologizes for the inconvenience and appeals to road users to be patient and exercise caution. Please look out for and adhere to temporary road signage

GEORGE FESTIVAL 2025 – Gospel Festival

The Gospel Festival promises a day of worship and song on Sunday 14th December from14h00 – 20h00.

With a full programme and something for everyone, all residents are invited to attend – Ps Fernando Fredricks will provide worship @ Unity Park.

Explore the full line-up of events, activities, and entertainment by accessing the programme via the link: https://www.george.gov.za/…/george-festival-2025…/