Municipality washes its hands of fatal building collapse

THE George Municipality said while the findings of the National Home Builders Registration Council's (NHBRC) report into the fatal building collapse that killed 34 people last year found their office to be at fault for approving the apartment blocks plan after it was already in construction, no significant findings were made against it during an audit, adding the plans were approved in line with regulations.

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

Through an audit conducted, the municipality revealed key information into the approval and acceptance of the plan, saying they did not have evidence that the construction went ahead despite the approval being processed.

Chantèl Edwards, municipal spokesperson, said via a statement in response to the NHBRC report, that they wished to give clarity on the findings.

"In accordance with Section A22, the engineer informed the municipality on une 29, 2023 that they intend to commence with construction on July 3, 2023.

"The municipality advised that the plans were not yet approved. Further enquiry was made on July 6, 2023 upon which it was confirmed that the plans were approved.

"The municipality does not have evidence alluding that the construction commenced prior to approval of the building plan," she said.

Human Settlements Minister, Thembi Simelane, on Wednesday said that five officials from the NHBRC were suspended and could face criminal charges along with the developers behind the construction, Neo Victoria Developments.

Simelane revealed damning evidence that George Municí pality had approved the building plans despite it already being in construction.