Plans in place to rebuild iconic pavilion at Saumarez Park

Monday 17 May 2021

The Rotary Club is planning to rebuild the iconic Japanese Fishing Pavilion at Saumarez Park.

It’s a well-known sight to many generations of islanders. Built in 1935 it has been a perfect spot for families to watch the birds and enjoy some peace and quiet.

However, it was last restored more than 30 years ago in 1989 and has been deteriorating ever since. It was eventually deemed too dangerous to keep open, closing to the public in 2019.

Pictured: The plans for the pavilion include renewing the access path and planting Hiroshima seedlings, in keeping with the Japanese heritage.

To celebrate its centenary, the Rotary Club of Guernsey will be leading the project to restore the pavilion and a planning application has been submitted by the Committee for Environment and Infrastructure on its behalf.

“I am sure that many islanders will agree that it is very disappointing to see the current condition of the pavilion,” said President of the Club, David Parish.

“The Rotary Club of Guernsey are delighted to launch this project to restore this iconic structure for the benefit of our local community and to adjust the ground levels at the entrance to the site to provide step free access so that it may provide enjoyment to all for many years to come."

Pictured: The project is being part funded by a donation from the John Ramplin Charity Trust.

“I am absolutely delighted that this project can finally move ahead,” said the President of E&I, Deputy Lindsay De Sausmarez.

“It is an excellent example of the public, private and third-party sectors working together,” she said.

Pictured: “It is fantastic that another generation of islanders and visitors will once again be able to enjoy this much-loved Pavilion,” said Deputy De Sausmarez.

Paul’s Joinery are the main contractors for the work, 95% of which will be expert joinery.

Work will start on the project as soon as planning permission is granted, and the Rotary Club is still looking for further donations to speed the process along; you can donate online HERE.