National Trust looks to restore unique triangular Church House
GUERNSEY’S National Trust has had a busy year, with plans now coming forward to restore the unique Church House in St Sampson’s and celebrate the granite industry there.
President Tony Spruce told its AGM that they were particularly pleased with Fermain Tower.
The trust took on the loophole tower in 2002, when the three floors were in a poor condition. But after more than a year of work it was turned into a self-catering facility.
‘We’ve had a very, very busy year,’ said Mr Spruce.
‘Obviously we were very happy to finally open Fermain Tower and that has been well received by the public.
‘It had nearly full occupancy during the whole summer. We are very glad it has concluded, as it’s been hard work.’
This year also saw the first full year of Les Caches Farm operating.
The 19th century farmhouse near Le Gouffre has been restored and can now be used for events.
‘We have had numerous events up there,’ said Mr Spruce.
‘It’s nice to have it in full use.’
That has included three wedding blessings and several wedding blessing bookings have already been taken for next year.
The Folk and Costume Museum at Saumarez Park has been busy since the shop was enlarged.
‘Sales are up considerably and our new manager, Aly Keeling, has done brilliantly,’ he said.
In Town, the Victorian Parlour in Cornet Street has been given a boost by passing trade since the reopening of the nearby Victor Hugo House.
Work has been taking place to map all the National Trust land along the south coast.
Thanks to help from islanders, that work is now done and there is an app available which will include the latest purchase of land near La Prevote.
Looking to the future, the group has taken on Church House – a triangular building beside St Sampson’s Church.
It is planned that the building will be restored and an outbuilding will be converted into a space with the history of the local granite industry.
A planning application should be submitted shortly.
An application will also be submitted to carry out work on the Cornet Street building. Above the Victorian Parlour is an office space, but it has stood empty for three years.
Mr Spruce said they now hoped to convert the office into an apartment.
‘It would be beautiful, over three floors and with an outlook over the bathing pools,’ he said.
