I was thrilled beyond measure to read that courses are to be established to train more people in the noble art of scaffolding. No doubt we shall soon have the pleasure of seeing even more of our buildings adorned with this charming decoration.
Even today, one can not walk through Town, either its centre or its outskirts, without encountering many fine examples of this abstract modern sculpture, but we are clearly in need of many more. But who would have guessed that Guernsey possessed such deep reserves of artistic talent?
The scaffolding on the seafront, in the very heart of our Town, has become such a permanent fixture that we would be bereft without it. There have been worrying rumours of late that it may soon come down, but fortunately nothing has so far happened. May I suggest that the States place a preservation order upon it, so that its beauty may be kept for the enjoyment of future generations?
Nor are these aesthetically-pleasing works confined to St Peter Port – it is hardly possible to go anywhere in the island without encountering the harmonious combination of steel tubing and wooden planks. But rarely does any subsequent work appear to happen at these locations; it would seem that the scaffolding is erected then forgotten, as its creators move on to fresh challenges.
The charms of Guernsey are also enhanced by the road closures, diversions and roadworks that appear, frequently and apparently at random, throughout our
island. Even in my own area, I have lost track of the number of times that St Claire Hill, Pointues Rocques, Rue des Monts, Mont Morin, Delancey Lane, the Route Militaire and the Braye Road have been closed over the last few years. It appears to be a fundamental truth that every road needs to be dug up every two or three years.
The Swedish island of Gotland is known as ‘the island of roses and ruins’. Perhaps we should be marketing Guernsey as ‘the island of scaffolding and roadworks’? I am sure that would encourage many more visitors to come to our once-beautiful isle.
R E STUCKEY
La Soucique, Rue Des Pointues Rocques, Delancey, St Sampson’s
To our valued commenters:
We are currently importing user accounts and comments from our previous site. During this period we are unable to accept new comments.
Please note that once your account has been successfully migrated, you will receive a notification at the associated email address. You will then be able to login and comment with your previous Disqus profile.