Alderney’s Odeon set to reopen to tourists

The naval direction finding tower, Marinepeilstand 3, known as The Odeon, was built during the Occupation.

Situated at Mannez Garenne, in the Longis Nature Reserve, it is the only example of its kind in Hitler’s Atlantic Wall.

It had to be closed in 2019 as safety repairs were required. Initial repairs have now been completed and the States of Alderney’s General Services Committee has given Visit Alderney the go ahead to look at reopening it.

Prior to closure it was a very popular site with tourists.

‘It is still early days to give detailed information, but our vision is to create a visitor experience to the same standard as the recently reopened Roman fort, Nunnery heritage site,’ said a Visit Alderney spokesman.

‘We have been inspired by a visit to Pleinmont Tower in Guernsey.

‘The necessary initial safety repair works have now been completed and we will be working with States Works Department and the Alderney Society, along with other individuals and volunteers, to create a safe and informative site for visitors.’

Visitors will be able to learn about the building itself and also about the Second World War and its impact on the island during this period.

The Odeon will provide an all-weather visitor attraction and add to the existing historic, cultural and wildlife offer at the eastern end of the island.

It will mean that people will be able to visit the Roman fort, The Odeon, railway and miniature railway, all whilst enjoying a walk around the nature reserve.

The date of the reopening will depend on the Covid-19 pandemic.