Some of the more interesting historic sites in Hermanus are now ‘public spaces’. Usually this means that ownership vests in the Municipality, the public have access to the site at most times, maintenance is the Municipality’s responsibility. Yet, at the same time, many members of societies such as ours would like the public to be aware of the history associated with the space and that use of it is appropriate to the reasons for which it is remembered.

Our two speakers will first analyse the concept of historically important public spaces and the planning issues involved. Then they will take the development of Swallow Park as a case study and invite discussion on approaches that could be adopted by the History Society towards this and other public spaces.