Committee Oversight Visit Highlights Urgent Preservation Needs at Potchefstroom Heritage Sites

The Sport, Arts and Culture Portfolio Committee of the JB Marks Local Municipality, led by Chairperson Cllr. Ivan Clarde Derbyshire, undertook an important oversight visit to several key heritage sites in Potchefstroom this week. The visit formed part of the municipality’s continued commitment to heritage conservation and cultural infrastructure oversight, ensuring that the region’s historical assets are preserved for future generations.

Image: JB Marks

Scope of the Inspection

Committee members Ald. Abraham Albertus Le Roux and Cllr. Matthys Jacobus Van Tonder joined the Chairperson in visiting a series of heritage and museum properties, including:

• Main Museum Art Galleries

• Museum Archives

• Goetz-Fleischack House

• Old Museum

• Old Electrical Building

• Old Station Municipal Property

• Totius House

• President Pretorius House

These locations, all of significant historical and cultural value, form the backbone of Potchefstroom’s heritage landscape and are central to understanding the city’s role in South African history.

Findings: Challenges to Heritage Preservation

The oversight revealed a number of pressing challenges affecting the structural integrity and preservation of these heritage sites.

Among the most serious issues identified were:

• Widespread roof leaks, which threaten both the buildings and the artifacts housed within.

• General lack of routine maintenance, including deteriorating paintwork, cracked walls, and wood decay.

• Incidents of break-ins and theft, exposing weaknesses in security measures.

Committee members expressed concern that without urgent intervention, continued neglect could lead to irreversible damage to some of the city’s most treasured historical landmarks.

Signs of Progress and Commitment

Despite the concerns, the committee also noted encouraging signs of progress and dedication among staff and management overseeing the museums and heritage facilities.

Observations included:

• Plans in progress to expand existing historical collections and develop new exhibitions.

• Active exhibitions currently on display, with future showcases already planned.

• Evidence of professional artifact care, with several items well-preserved despite environmental challenges.

• Maintenance strategies being developed to address roof leaks, wall cracks, and wood repairs.

• Initiatives to promote heritage tourism, including revamping signage, improving accessibility, and enhancing public engagement.

The committee commended the ongoing efforts of cultural staff and heritage curators who continue to protect and promote the city’s history despite limited resources.

Balancing Urgency and Opportunity

The oversight visit presented a balanced view, recognizing both the urgency of addressing infrastructure decay and the municipality’s proactive steps toward long-term sustainability.

Chairperson Cllr. Derbyshire emphasised the dual responsibility of preserving heritage while ensuring that museums remain vibrant, educational spaces accessible to the public. The committee’s findings will inform further recommendations on budget allocations, security improvements, and maintenance programs aimed at preventing further degradation.

Broader Significance

Potchefstroom’s heritage sites are not only local assets but also part of a broader narrative that contributes to the cultural identity of the North West Province. Preserving these spaces safeguards a tangible link to the past, fostering civic pride and educational value for residents and visitors alike.

The visit reinforced the importance of ongoing collaboration between government departments, cultural institutions, and the community to ensure that the city’s heritage infrastructure remains protected, relevant, and accessible.

Image: JB Marks

Wrap-Up

The Sport, Arts and Culture Portfolio Committee’s oversight visit served as both a reality check and a reaffirmation of commitment. While serious infrastructure and security concerns persist across Potchefstroom’s heritage network, the committee acknowledged the dedication of museum staff and the progress made toward restoration and revitalisation.

Preserving the city’s cultural history will require sustained investment, coordinated management, and community support, ensuring that these landmarks continue to tell Potchefstroom’s story for generations to come.

#TheGoToGuy #potchefstroom #HeritagePreservation #PotchefstroomMuseums #JbMarksCulture #ArtsAndCulture #CulturalHeritage

🏛️📚🕰️🔧