The question of whether development or heritage protection should receive priority has become a bone of contention in one of Johannesburg’s historical and cultural hubs, the Newtown Precinct.

Architects and heritage consultants have lodged a request for an urgent appeal against a controversial decision by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (Sahra) to demolish 10 historic Art Deco-style buildings in Johannesburg's inner city.

Architects and heritage consultants have lodged a request for an urgent appeal against a controversial decision by the South African Heritage Resources Agency (Sahra) to demolish 10 historic Art Deco-style buildings in Johannesburg’s inner city.