Save the Touwsrivier Ontspanningsklub and Protect Our Town's Heritage 

TO:

• Transnet SOC Ltd (The Property Owner) 
• The Breede Valley Municipality 
• The South African Police Service (SAPS) 
• Heritage Western Cape 
• The Provincial Government of the Western Cape 
• The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) 
• The National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure 

We, the undersigned residents, former residents, and supporters of Touwsrivier, are witnessing the tragic and rapid destruction of the Touwsrivier Ontspanningsklub (Recreation Club), located on Part of Rem of Erf 218. 

This is not just any property; it was the heartbeat of our town's history and a key heritage site. 

WHEREAS: 

• It was Our Social and Civic Heartbeat: The Ontspanningsklub was established by the South African Railways (SAR) to serve as the central social and civic hub for the large railway workforce and their families. It was a de facto civic centre, serving as the Town Hall, a bioscope, a pub, a café, and offices. 
• It is a Place of Community Memory: For decades, this was where our community gathered. It is where weddings were held, where children had their first concerts, where families came together, and where the spirit of our community was built. 
• It Contains Irreplaceable Heritage Assets: The site contains several distinct heritage structures, including: The Jubilee Hall: Touwsrivier's first school, which later served as a library, bioscope, and entertainment hall. 
• The Delville Wood/Great War Memorial: A monument dedicated "In memory of the Touws River Men who served in the Great War 1914-1918", listing the names of local men who died in the conflict. 
• A Commemorative Plaque: A stone laid by the Minister of Transport on 16th August 1958, signifying high-level government recognition of our town's importance. 

It is Facing a Heritage Crisis: This vital piece of our history is being stolen and demolished. The buildings are being stripped, with floors, windows, and steel being stolen. This "loss of heritage" has been officially reported. 

The Current Situation is Unsustainable:

• The owner, Transnet, is "shocked" by the condition but states it faces "budget constraints" and is waiting to find new tenants before committing to repairs. 
• The SAPS and the Neighbourground Watch are trying to monitor the site, but have faced challenges in getting the owner (Transnet) to open cases against arrested suspects. 
• While we are grateful for the efforts of the police and the volunteers, the destruction continues. 

When this building is destroyed, our town loses more than a structure; we lose the physical memory of who we were.

THEREFORE, WE THE UNDERSIGNED DEMAND: 

From Transnet (The Owner): 

• Immediately Secure the Site: Fulfill your responsibility as the owner and properly secure the entire property to halt all further vandalism, theft, and demolition. 
• Actively Prosecute: Work directly with SAPS to ensure cases are opened against every person arrested for theft, vandalism, or trespassing on the property. 
• Engage with the Community: Work with the Breede Valley Municipality and the Touwsrivier community to find a sustainable solution to restore and repurpose this heritage site.

From the Breede Valley Municipality and SAPS:

• Enforce the Law: Use all legal means to act decisively against those destroying this property.
• Support the Community: Provide all necessary support to the Touwsrivier Neighbourhood Watch volunteers, who are working tirelessly to protect our community's assets. 

From Heritage Western Cape and SAHRA: 

• Recognize and Protect: Take all necessary steps to formally recognize the heritage significance of this site and provide it with the highest possible level of protection under the National Heritage Resources Act.
• Enforce Compliance: Compel the owner, Transnet, to fulfill its legal obligations to protect and maintain this heritage asset. 

We, the community of Touwsrivier, care about our history. We call on you to take immediate and decisive action. 

Heritage is not a luxury. It is the foundation of who we are. Please help us save ours.