ALBERTON – Alterations have already begun on the old Town Hall located in Alberton North.
According to the Alberton Heritage Society the alterations that have taken place are done illegally, because the correct procedures to approve the alteration have not been followed.
There was some confusion about the building going on, but it has been confirmed that the building will not be demolished. Although this is the case, the building has already been altered inside. The hall will be used as an office space.
The Heritage Society has informed the Provincial Heritage Resource Agency -Government (PHRA-G), and they have gone to the police to open a case.
According to the South African Heritage Resource Agency’s (SAHRA) website: “No person may alter or demolish any structure or part of a structure which is older than 60 years without a permit issued by the relevant provincial heritage resources authority.”
The Town Hall was originally built in 1919 and was changed in 1938.
The Alberton Heritage Society got wind of the possible alterations and has notified Ekurhuleni Metro Municipality (EMM) in the February council meeting, giving a petition to halt any alterations taking place.
Thus the municipality was aware of the possible alterations a month before residents took to Facebook to make their voices heard.
The RECORD has sent an urgent inquiry to EMM on March 26 for comment on the situation. As soon as they have replied to our query we will post an update as soon as possible.
