Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Juanita Terblanche
The Democratic Alliance (DA) calls for immediate provincial intervention to save Selborne Hall, the iconic Neo–Cape Dutch landmark at the Potchefstroom Agricultural College, following public outcry over years of neglect.
Selborne Hall, a declared heritage structure, is historically significant as the venue where the Afrikaner Cattle Breeders’ Association was founded in 1912. Once a symbol of excellence in agricultural education, it now stands in a state of critical decay: open roofs and ceilings, rotting timber, broken windows, vegetation overgrowth, vandalism, and extensive water damage (see photos here, here, and here). The site remains unsecured, posing serious safety, liability, and reputational risks to the Province and to agricultural training institutions.
Despite repeated commitments dating back to 2010/11 to refurbish key college buildings including Selborne Hall and the “Castle” administration block, no restoration work has materialised. Departmental records show that both buildings were budgeted for at R14 million in 2011/12 under the Department of Agriculture, with Public Works responsible for delivery.
The DA condemns the Province’s failure to safeguard this declared heritage resource. Allowing demolition by neglect not only breaches the National Heritage Resources Act but also undermines community pride and educational heritage.
The DA calls for:
- The appointment of a single accountable project lead from the Department of Agriculture, as asset custodian, to chair a joint task team with Public Works and the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA).
- Immediate emergency actions, including perimeter security, weatherproofing, structural propping, pest control, and a full structural and heritage condition assessment.
- A transparent, costed restoration plan, with clear timeframes and accountability measures.
Furthermore, the DA proposes a formal partnership with the Alumni Association for stewardship, programming, and co-funding, alongside a multi-year, ring-fenced restoration budget to recommission Selborne Hall as a lecture and exhibition venue preserving it as a proud legacy for future generations.
The Province must act now before one of Potchefstroom’s most important heritage landmarks is lost forever.