The Appeals Committee, established under the National Heritage Resources Act and Heritage Western Cape guidelines, is an independent body tasked with reviewing and resolving appeals against decisions made by Heritage Western Cape (HWC) regarding heritage resources. The Appeals Committee plays a pivotal role in the heritage management framework by acting as a review and resolution body for disputes. When decisions made by HWC regarding heritage resources are challenged, this committee steps in to ensure due process is followed and the principles of heritage conservation are upheld.
The Appeals Committee, established under the National Heritage Resources Act and Heritage Western Cape regulations is a committee tasked with hearing and deciding on appeals against decisions made by officials or sub-committees of Heritage Western Cape’s Council (HWC). A party with an interest in a matter has the right to an appeal to the Appeals committee in terms of S49 of the NHRA. The Appeal must be on heritage grounds_PM inputs
Who Makes Up the Committee?
Appointed by the HWC Council for a three-year term, the Appeals Committee consists of a multidisciplinary team of professionals with expertise in:
- Heritage conservation
- Archaeology
- Architecture
- Law
- Community engagement
This diverse expertise enables the committee to evaluate appeals comprehensively, considering cultural, legal, and societal dimensions.
Who Makes Up the Committee?
Appointed by the HWC Council for a three-year term, the Appeals Committee consists of a multidisciplinary team of professionals with expertise in:
- Heritage conservation
- Architecture
- Law
- Community engagement
The Committee may co-opt additional members with specific skills which may be required in relation to an appeal_PM inputs
The Appeals Committee appointed for a three year term ending 31 October 2025, presently consists of the following members:
- Mr Tyrone Gregory Ontong (Chairperson)
- Ms Corlie Smart
- Mr Stuart Hermansen
- Dr Andre van Graan
- Ms Claire Abrahamse
The Appeals Committee convenes monthly, contingent upon the receipt of appeals, and operates in accordance with the Rules of Order and Conduct of Meetings of the Council of Heritage Western Cape and its Committees. These meetings are open to the public, allowing interested individuals to attend.
The Appeals Committee convenes monthly, depending on whether appeals have been received and operates in accordance with the Rules of Order and Conduct of Meetings of the Council of Heritage Western Cape and its Committees. These meetings are open to the public, allowing interested individuals to attend_PM inputs
Appeals Process
Appeals to the committee must follow a prescribed process outlined in the Heritage Western Cape Regulations. This typically includes:
Appeals to the committee must follow a prescribed process outlined in the Heritage Western Cape Regulations and the procedure document below. This includes: PM inputs
- Submitting a formal notice of appeal within the designated timeframe.
- Providing supporting documentation or evidence to substantiate the appeal.
- Participating in hearings or discussions, where both appellants and relevant authorities can present their cases.
The Appeals Committee then deliberates on the matter, considering all submissions and the legal and cultural implications of the decision.
For more information about HWC Appeals Committee processes, please refer to the documentation below;