Saumarez Park’s Japanese Pavilion being restored

Known to many as the ‘Duck House’, it is a well-known and much -loved Guernsey landmark, but is closed to the public and has stood derelict since 2019 when it was deemed unsafe for public use.

This summer, the Rotary Club of Guernsey is leading a restoration project ahead of its centenary celebrations, which start in 2022, to provide a lasting and sustainable legacy for the pavilion.

Brian Acton is the president nominee of the Rotary Club, meaning he will be president during the centenary year.

‘Since announcing the project we’ve received many supportive comments from members of the community who have fond memories of the pavilion and are keen to see the structure restored to its former glory,' he said.

'A project of this significance however comes at a considerable cost and would not be possible without the support of our sponsors.’

Butterfield has pledged its support, alongside other members of Guernsey’s business community, including the John Ramplin Charity Trust, Resolution IT and the Castel constables.

‘These organisations are just as keen as we are to ensure that the pavilion remains an important part of our community and a place to be enjoyed by all for many years to come,’ he said.

‘Almost everyone will have their own fond memories of the pavilion, and we’re grateful to Pauls Joinery for taking on the challenge of replicating it exactly with wood that will last for 50 years.’

With planning permission now granted, work is set to start soon, starting with the dismantling of the old structure.

In the Pauls Joinery workshop, Will Le Lievre has spent five weeks working on the project.

‘One of the trickiest parts is the roof, there’s so many different angles and things to get exactly right, and with only measurements and photos to go off, it’s quite a challenge – a good challenge though,’ he said.

Also involved in undertaking the work are Sarnian Roofing, Bob Froome & Son, Norman Piette, PF+A Architects, Fusion Engineering, Scaffolding Services and Petersfield Plant Centre.

With the support of Petersfield, the surrounding ground levels at the pavilion’s entrance will be adjusted to provide step-free access so that, for the first time ever, it can be accessed and enjoyed by all members of the community.