The Good Hope Centre sold for R135 million after the City of Cape Town concluded a public auction of 53 properties this week, drawing sharp political criticism and raising questions about the future of the iconic venue, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The City sold Cape Town’s iconic Good Hope Centre for R135m, ignoring public voices, heritage obligations, and housing needs. With 400 000 residents still waiting for homes, this sale raises serious questions of transparency, accountability and public trust.
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Mayoral committee member for economic growth James Vos confirmed that the City finalised the sale as part of a broader property disposal programme. The City has previously stated that it aims to release underutilised assets to unlock economic development and reduce maintenance costs.
The City sold Cape Town’s iconic Good Hope Centre for R135m, ignoring public voices, heritage obligations, and housing needs. With 400,000 residents still waiting for homes, this sale raises serious questions of transparency, accountability, and public trust.
Public assets… pic.twitter.com/IDtNna7pFN
— GOOD (@ForGoodZA) February 26, 2026
GOOD party secretary-general Brett Herron criticised the transaction in a post on X, formerly Twitter. ‘These public assets belong to the people. It’s an absolute disgrace,’ he wrote. He described the purchase price as a ‘bargain basement’ figure and questioned whether the City was acting in the public interest.
Herron also called on Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis to clarify his position. ‘He must decide if he’s a public servant or a property trader,’ Herron said in an X post.
The @Our_DA run @CityofCT just sold the iconic Good Hope Centre for R135 million. Part of the 53 properties they auctioned off today as the DA raids the family silver – except the silver doesn’t belong to them.
It’s an absolute disgrace. These public assets belong to the people.… pic.twitter.com/57BneZfwno— Brett Herron 🇿🇦🍉 (@brettherron) February 26, 2026
The Good Hope Centre has hosted community events, exhibitions and concerts for decades. Residents and civic groups have expressed concern about access to the space under private ownership.
The City has yet to release full details about the buyer or proposed redevelopment plans.
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Also read:
Court clears contentious Good Hope Centre auction despite backlash
Picture: @brettherron / X
