The Langeberg Local Municipality is facing criticism after the historic Mouton House in McGregor was demolished in March 2024 without obtaining the legally required authorisation from Heritage Western Cape (HWC). The structure, a heritage property, was part of a land parcel purchased by the municipality in 2012 intended for the development of the ‘White City’ housing project.
Contested Demolition And Statutory Requirements
Municipal manager Daniël Lubbe has defended the action, stating that the council had “unanimously resolved” to approve the demolition. Lubbe described the destruction of the farmhouse as a “lawful, necessary and responsible intervention” when speaking about the council’s decision.
However, Heritage Western Cape has confirmed that no demolition permits were issued for the property, raising concerns about potential breaches of the National Heritage Resources Act. The Act stipulates that all structures older than 60 years are protected, and any alteration or demolition requires specific heritage approval.
Transparency Concerns And Legal Recourse
The controversy has sparked a push for greater administrative transparency regarding the decision-making process. Former councillor Theuns Coetzee has lodged an official complaint with the national Information Officer after his attempts to access documentation through the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) were repeatedly denied.
The property had fallen into a state of disrepair following the municipality’s 2012 acquisition, as it was left unsecured and subsequently stripped by vandals. Despite earlier recommendations from the Western Cape legislature that the farmhouse be repurposed as a safe house, the site remains in ruins following the March 2024 demolition, with only foundations visible during a March 2025 inspection by HWC officials. Allegations have since emerged from local stakeholders suggesting that information regarding the necessity of the demolition may have been misrepresented to the council.
An internal appeal process regarding the refused access to municipal documentation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the authorisation of the demolition.