Sunday, 05 September 2010
ITAFA AMALINDE HERITAGE TRUST Print E-mail

HERITAGE
Once an old and familiar landmark has been removed it has gone forever. Heritage is a non-renewable resource. It needs wise management.

Durban has a rich historical heritage. A heritage of buildings and structures, set within streets, spaces and places built over 150 years and fused by people from three different continents: Africa, Asia and Europe. A unique blend which has given to the city, and its buildings, a special quality. All cultures have contributed to this heritage and make it a better city for all, it is essential for us to understand and conserve our past and the history of all who have contributed. In conserving this resource we will find mutual tolerance and respect. Our historical resources are also an intrinsic element of our value as an exciting and unique tourist destination.

OBJECTIVES OF THE TRUST
The objectives of Itafa Amalinde Heritage Trust are to promote, foster and advance the conservation and restoration of the unique heritage of the area.

The Trust was established in 1988 under the auspices of the Ethekwini City Council (formerly Durban City Council) to achieve these objectives through the development of a Trust Fund.

PROJECTS
One of the first projects undertaken by the Trust was the rescue and restoration of 160 Bulwer Road in Glenwood. This fine Edwardian house now serves as the home for the Trust and the KwaZulu-Natal Institute for Architecture.

CONSERVATION AND COMMUNITY NEEDS
In 1995, the Trust commissioned a study of vacant, obsolete and redundant structures in the city of Durban which are worthy of conservation and restoration and which could be put to some form of community usage. Numerous examples of different types and styles were identified. Similarly there exists a growing list of community and social needs which may be effectively matched with these structures. These include study centres and libraries, clinics and childcare facilities, a transport museum and small business opportunities. This project has reached the stage where users are being identified and the Trust acts as a broker to facilitate funding and successful development. For those interested in being involved in such projects please contact the Director on 031-2615204.

CONSERVATION AREAS
The Trust commissioned conservation specialists to compile a Conservation Areas Research Project which provides an important strategy for appropriate conservation in the city. The study identifies a broad selection of conservation areas - of importance to all communities. In these, individual buildings and groups may be conserved within their streets and places. A copy of the publication can be obtained from the Director.

FUNDRAISING
While the primary purpose of the Trust is the development of its Trust Fund, many of these projects concern specific buildings and users and therefore funds are sought on an individual basis for these specific needs. However, the Trust also requires funds to modestly maintain its essential work to cover day-to-day running costs. You may be able to assist or know of someone who wishes to contribute to the Trust financially. All enquiries and contributions may be directed through the Chairman or the office of the Director. Fundraising Number : 066008330008

TRUSTEES
In terms of its Constitution, the Trust is composed of representatives of the city's communities and of various organizations with a role and an interest in our historical heritage and its conservation.

DIRECTOR : Prof Brian Kearney
CHAIRMAN : Dave Bennett
VICE-CHAIRMAN : John Frost

ADDRESS
Itafa Amalinde Heritage Trust
160 Bulwer Road, Durban 4001.
Tel : 031 - 2615204 or 031 - 2010588

 
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