Bailiff opens new Japanese Pavilion at Saumarez Park
THE new Japanese Pavilion in Saumarez Park has been officially opened by the Bailiff Richard McMahon.
The Rotary Club of Guernsey commissioned the project as part of its centenary celebrations.
The fishing pavilion represents one of the last remaining structures associated with the Japanese garden within Saumarez Park.
Originally built in 1935 it has, since the park has been in public ownership, become a favourite spot for families.
The original structure fell into disrepair during the German Occupation and was subject to significant repairs in 1989 by the then Board of Administration. In 2016 a full structural survey was commissioned that identified that extensive remedial works were required.
Project manager Nigel Dorey said the opening ceremony celebrated the hard work of local contractors, supporters and sponsors who all had a part to play in the rebuilding.
‘We’re thrilled to have opened the pavilion after months of hard work to rebuild the structure for the community,’ he said.
‘The unveiling was a special moment to mark the occasion and we’re excited that the public can now return and enjoy an iconic area of the park that remains a special place for so many people.
‘Now that the work is complete, and we have officially opened the pavilion, we’d love to encourage the public to go and enjoy the tranquillity of the park from the much-loved and iconic new structure.’
Among those who attended the opening were representatives from project sponsors Butterfield, Resolution IT, the John Ramplin Charity Trust, and the Castel Constables. Contractors from Paul’s Joinery, who built the structure, were also in attendance along with Sarnian Roofing, Bob Froome & Son, Norman Piette, PF+A Architects, Fusion Engineering and Petersfield Plant Centre who all provided helped the project in some way.
Alan Bain, chief financial officer at Butterfield and chairman of its charitable donations committee, said the bank was extremely proud to have supported a project which had been so warmly welcomed.
‘I am looking forward to seeing how the new pavilion will be enjoyed by islanders for generations to come,’ he said.
