Swakopmund building cannot carry itself, says developer defending refurbishment plan

By: Victoria Ashipala

Property developer of the planned hotel at the old Swakopmund municipal building said the current foundation of the 120-year-old structure does not support the structure’s existing weight, therefore it requires an internal refurbishment.

Darmesh said the plan includes preserving the exterior of the building while demolishing the rear section and doing internal refurbishment.

Darmesh’s sentiments come after the Namibia Heritage Council reportedly blocked plans to demolish the former municipal building and post office on Erf 989 in Swakopmund for conversion into a hotel.

However, Darmesh said the building, in its current state, poses a serious health and safety risk, adding that the proposed refurbishment is based on a structural engineer’s report.

However, built heritage officer Jurgen Kuhanga, said the building’s current structure is still intact and does not require massive construction. He added