GEORGE NEWS - The application for the transfer of the Davidson Road property on which the historical magistrate's residence is situated has not been approved, according to Jandré Bakker, spokesperson for the Western Cape Department of Transport and Public works.

This department has applied for the property, erf 658, to be transferred to its books from the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, which is the current custodian.

The application is made on behalf of the Provincial Department of Health and Wellness for the property to be utilised by George Hospital.

In 2021, the National Public Works department cleared most of the eucalyptus trees on the property after years of complaints by surrounding residents about criminal activity that was believed to originate there. The department then said it had appointed a security company to prevent illegal occupation and criminal activities.

During George Herald's visit there at the weekend, there were signs that the house is still illegally occupied.

In heritage circles there is concern over the continued existence of the building, built in the early 1930s, and it is hoped that it could be renovated once the property is carried over to Province for the extension of the George Hospital. 

Last year, the George Heritage Society expressed dismay at the way in which National Public Works has allowed the building to be vandalised.

A photo taken around 2010 by local historian Lynne Thompson. The house was built around 1930.

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’