Historic York Hostel Revitalised as New George Municipality Offices to Bring Services Closer to the People
George Municipality is proud to announce the official opening of its brand-new municipal offices at 46 Market Street, formerly known as the York Hostel.
After standing vacant for more than 15 years, this once-dilapidated building has been transformed into a modern, accessible municipal facility that will serve as a vital hub for municipal services in the heart of George.
Strategically positioned just steps from the GO GEORGE public transport hub, the new building houses the Directorate of Planning and Development, including Human Settlements, as well as officials from the Financial and Strategic Services Department.
George Municipal Manager, Godfrey Louw, confirmed that the building will be given a new name, following a public participation process.
Residents can now access key municipal services at the new facility, including assistance with planning and development applications, human settlements queries such as the housing waiting list, indigent support for vulnerable households, and support for Investment Properties (land acquisition and lease applications) matters. While cash payments will not be accepted on-site, credit card facilities will be phased in over time. The facility is fully accessible, including a disabled-access lift, and has been purposefully designed to ease the burden of travel for residents seeking municipal assistance.
Speaking at the official opening on Friday, 13 June 2025, Acting Executive Mayor of George, Cllr Browen Johnson, described the event as a significant and historic moment for the municipality. He said it filled him with immense pride and a profound sense of purpose to stand before the audience as the municipality delivered on a long-standing commitment. He emphasised that the building represents more than bricks and mortar — it is a bridge between government and the people, a symbol of service, not bureaucracy. Councillor Johnson explained that while accessing the building may still require some travel, its strategic location — within metres of reliable public transport, including the GO GEORGE bus service — was intentional. He noted that key services have been decentralised to make them more accessible, ensuring that vulnerable groups, the elderly, and entrepreneurs can now receive the help they need closer to home.
Cllr Johnson extended his sincere thanks to Municipal Manager Louw for his leadership throughout the project, to the contractors for delivering excellent work, and to all municipal staff involved in making the project a reality. He reminded those present that the true success of the building would not be measured by its appearance, but by the difference it makes in people’s lives — through resolved queries, processed documents, and renewed confidence in the municipality’s commitment to service delivery.
According to Louw, the York Hostel had long been an eyesore in the Central Business District before Council resolved in 2024 to acquire the building from the Department of Public Works in exchange for several municipal buildings used by provincial health clinics. He highlighted that the revitalisation of this historic building not only breathes new life into the immediate surroundings but will also contribute to the economic revitalisation of the CBD. Louw noted that the municipality’s presence in the area would add value to neighbouring properties and support growth in the local economy.
The comprehensive renovation included the complete gutting of the old structure and the installation of new windows, ablution facilities, roofing, a modern customer service centre, and a disabled-access lift. New parking areas were created, and the building was fitted with modern open-plan layouts and shared working spaces. The project was successfully delivered by a team of dedicated professionals including Ruwacon as main contractor, SDK Architects, Urban Engineering, Leap Quantity Surveyors, and on-site project managers and safety officers. The municipality extends its sincere thanks to all involved for their hard work and commitment.
Cllr Jean Safers, Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, also addressed the event, expressing his appreciation to all stakeholders involved in delivering the project. He specifically acknowledged Mahlatse Phosa, Director of Planning and Development, as well as Delia Power, Deputy Director: Planning, for their commitment to the success of the project. Councillor Safers described the facility as the Directorate’s flagship project and placed responsibility for its success firmly with the team leading it. He expressed full confidence in their ability to deliver effective service to the residents of George and called on the community to provide feedback.
Photos:
Godfrey Louw, George Municipal Manager; Councillor Browen Johnson, Acting Executive Mayor of George; Councillor Theresa Jeyi, Chief Whip of George Council; and Mahlatse Phosa, Director: Planning and Development, cut the ribbon at the new municipal building at 46 Market Street.
Councillors and officials at the official opening of the new municipal building in Market Street, next to the GO GEORGE transport hub.
The Municipal Manager, Godfrey Louw, members of the Mayoral Committee, and directors at the opening of the building.
Director Mahlatse Phosa and officials who occupy the new building listen intently to Acting Mayor Councillor Browen Johnson’s opening speech.