The Bridge does not look its best at the moment but that is a result of prolonged neglect and an ill-considered through traffic and parking system that dominates its appearance and personality. However, this does not hide what is an area full of character, charm and potential, with architecture largely harmonising through its proportion and style. It needs an architect with vision, imagination and a deep appreciation of its innate potential. If handled with thought and sympathy, the area bordering the inner harbour could become a real gem. The States must not squander the opportunity.
Of course housing is badly needed and the area known as Leale’s Yard is the ideal place. However, it has to be handled in a sympathetic way. The new must relate in some way with what we at the moment recognise as the Bridge, or at least not conflict in a detrimental way. It is not sufficient to accept a grossly unacceptable building on the grounds that it’s not as high as the power station chimney.
If Mr Brock is allowed to construct his high-rise flats, it would destroy the aesthetics and inherent character of the Bridge, if not beyond. Allowing this to happen, in my opinion, would be criminal. The States must ensure that in its quest for more housing it does not destroy the assets that we already treasure.
R Dingle
St Sampson’s
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