Norscot Manor on its way to receive blue plaque status

Norscot Manor has stood colossally over the plush grounds of the manor nestled behind the white gabled walls, and still retains all the glory of its original Cape Dutch façade. It was established as the residential home of motor industry giant Ernst Erikson and his wife Ethal who settled there in 1937.

It has recently undergone the process of receiving its blue plaque status, a permanent sign that will be shown to commemorate the historical significance of the site. This will officially be issued in a ceremony sometime next year. According to Ward 115 councillor Graham Pearson, the process is a lengthy one and the exact date of the issuing is not yet clear.

Norscot Manor came under a barrage of rumors of being sold off last year.This sparked a huge outcry in the Fourways community, resulting in the formation of pressure group Friends of Norscot. The council has since assured the public that the site will not be sold any time in the near future.

However, Pearson and Friends of Norscot are determined to get the manor declared a heritage site, ensuring in the eyes of the law that it is then protected for its historical value. This measure will be taken once the blue plaque has been installed.

It was sold to the council 25 years ago. Pearson said the council poured R 800 000 into the library last year.It operates as a modern day library which is utilised by the greater community. It also houses historical documents about Norscot that are on display for public viewing. Friends of Norscot member Jo Warden said once preservation efforts are achieved, the focus will shift to the more positive mission of building the community.