The historic Kleinplasie property, one of Worcester’s oldest and most culturally significant landmarks, will be auctioned off in September, potentially paving the way for new housing, job creation, and regional development.
Owned by the Breede Valley Local Municipality, the 200 000 square metre site will go under the hammer in an online auction from 17 to 18 September 2025, managed by the Claremart Group.
Rising demand
Officials say the move is part of a broader effort to unlock value from non-core government assets, with Claremart noting that the sale could meet rising demand for middle-income housing in the Western Cape.
“It’s a financially sound strategy and part of responsible governance,” said Zain Amod, Executive Director of Claremart.
“This is about stimulating the local economy through proper asset management.”
The auction has already attracted interest from developers, especially amid increasing migration to towns outside Cape Town and a shortage of affordable housing options.
Will remain operational
While the property is slated for potential development, officials have assured the public that the Kleinplasie Museum, currently managed by the provincial government, will remain operational and protected.
“Heritage and development can coexist,” said Claremart’s Rob Stafanutto.
“Kleinplasie has the potential to bridge history and progress.”
The municipality says the auction is being conducted transparently following an open tender process, and that the land will not be “dumped” or transferred via informal means.
The sale marks a potential new chapter for one of the Breede Valley’s cultural cornerstones, as Kleinplasie moves from public ownership into a future that may blend heritage with opportunity.
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