By Chalotte Mokonyane
Makhanda is a city rich in history and architectural heritage. The city has around 70 ‘monuments’ protected by provincial oversight. But its unique character has been eroded over the past decade due to the collapse of the vital municipal aesthetics committee. However, there is renewed hope for the preservation of its historic buildings as the committee has now been re-established and is ready to resume its crucial advisory and decision-making role within the Makana Municipal Council.
Phillipa Irvine, a member of the newly re-established committee, explained that the committee was formed in the early 1970s, and is mandated to conserve the built environment heritage. Makhanda has a lot of historical houses and businesses, Irvine said, and they are protected by national legislation and also by Makana’s by-laws. The committee’s purpose is to ensure these buildings are conserved, preventing inappropriate alterations like oversized signs, destructive demolitions, or unsuitable paint colours.
For more than 10 years the committee, which falls under the local economic development and planning unit, was non-operational. This lapse meant that by-laws were not enforced, leading to unauthorised signage, illegal demolitions, and a lack of proper guidance for property owners.
The re-establishment process began with a call for nominations last year, seeking community members with proven credentials in heritage conservation. Experts were appointed through the council, and an induction was held earlier this year.
Irvine said South African legislation dictates that any building older than 60 years – which accounts for most of Makhanda’s building – requires planning permission for alterations due to potential historical significance. Permission is required for changes to the exterior, such as windows, facades, roofs, or doors, which might detract from the building’s heritage.
This protection is enforced through a three-tier system involving national, provincial, and local government policies, including the Heritage Resources Act and the South African Heritage Resources Authority.
Beyond individual buildings, the Aesthetic Committee’s purview extends across Makhanda, encompassing areas like the Botanical Gardens and buildings at Rhodes University. The committee’s work is crucial for preserving the history and culture embedded in Makhanda’s architecture.
