Build it – but will they come?
THE public backlash against the plans to enhance the Little Chapel site are not entirely surprising.
After all, there is a significant number of islanders who appear to be resistant to change, no matter what it is. When that change involves one of Guernsey’s most loved landmarks, then some concern is almost inevitable.
But are the criticisms in this case justified?
The Little Chapel Foundation’s intentions are almost certainly well-meaning.
No one complained when they stepped in to take on the site three years ago, when it was in a state of dire disrepair, and managed to raise thousands of pounds to restore the building to its former glory.
Having successfully completed that restoration, it is only natural that the foundation would then go on to consider what else they can do to improve the site and secure its future as a tourist attraction.
The idea of improving disabled access is laudable, as is boosting biodiversity and educating visitors about the chapel’s history.
But what appears to have alarmed those against the plans is their sheer scale.
The foundation has applied to undertake half a million pounds of work to rebuild Deodat’s castle and create an interpretation centre, accessible paths, entrance building, gateway and toilet block.
All for a tiny chapel, a major part of the appeal of which is its unspoilt beauty and tranquillity.
The Guernsey Guild of Accredited Guides has warned of the dangers of the popular attraction becoming over-commercialised.
There are also concerns that an entrance charge might need to be introduced to cover the increased cost of maintenance of the site.
What is clear is that tourists’ expectations have changed over the years and many visitors would no doubt welcome some improvements to the site’s access and facilities.
But it is important to remember what it is that makes the chapel special in a world full of Disney-style commercial attractions.
The challenge now facing the foundation is to strike a delicate balance between maximising the potential of the attraction, without destroying the very thing that makes it attractive to tourists in the first place.