Our vernacular building heritage is, by virtue of the very nature of its fabric, fragile.
In addition, the social and economic environments in which it originated and survives are ever-changing and often under pressure. Often the most wonderful artefacts of our vernacular building heritage are very simple buildings or environments – and preservation, conservation or even just maintenance, is a luxury.
But the gravest danger is posed by ignorance or the perception that the artefact is “worthless” or iconic of an unsavoury past best forgotten.
To further VASSA’s aim to broaden both the existing body of knowledge on the vernacular built environment and broaden the base of those who share access to that knowldegde, the Society has set up a Watchdog portfolio.
The Watchdog portfolio’s aim is one of advocacy
It seeks to help those involved in the care of vernacular buildings and environment better conserve these precious resources, and to change perceptions of those who disregard this same heritage.
A subcommittee of concerned and vocal members is ready to take on issues and assist community members conserve the heritage in their respective backyards.
VASSA is a registered heritage body with Heritage Western Cape.
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