Rebuild of iconic Japanese Pavilion begins

Friday 28 May 2021

The restoration of the historic Japanese Fishing Pavilion at Saumarez Park is underway.

The Rotary Club of Guernsey is leading a restoration project the summer ahead of its centenary celebrations with the aim to provide a "lasting and sustainable" legacy for the pavilion, which is also known as the 'Duck House'.

Built in 1935, it was last restored more than 30 years ago in 1989 and has since fallen into disrepair. It was eventually deemed too dangerous to keep open, closing to the public in 2019.

“Since announcing the project we’ve received many supportive comments from members of the community who have fond memories of the pavilion and are keen to see the structure restored to its former glory," said President Nominee of The Rotary Club, Brian Acton.

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

"A project of this significance however comes at a considerable cost and would not be possible without the support of our sponsors."

Nigel Dorey from The Rotary Club is the Site Manager and is overseeing the project.

“We’re very excited that work can now commence. The new framework is making good progress being built at Paul's Joinery’s workshop, which means that we should avoid any weather-related delays."

The rebuild also presents opportunities to improve accessibility. Petersfield Plant Centre will be adjusting the surrounding ground levels at the pavilion’s entrance to provide step-free access so that it can be accessed and enjoyed by everyone. 

Mr Dorey added that a raft of companies had thrown their support behind the community project.

“Our sincerest thanks go out to our main financial sponsors - Butterfield and the John Ramplin Charity Trust, as well to Resolution IT Limited and The Constables of Castel.

Pictured: The new framework is being built at Paul's Joinery’s workshop.

He continued: "These organisations are just as keen as we are to ensure that the pavilion remains an important part of our community and a place to be enjoyed by all for many years to come.”

The work is being undertaken with the support of Paul's Joinery and with the assistance of Sarnian Roofing, Bob Froome & Son, Norman Piette, PF+A Architects, Fusion Engineering, Scaffolding Services and Petersfield Plant Centre.

Richard Saunders, Managing Director of Butterfield, said: “Seeing the building restored to its former glory will mean so much to the community and we are proud to play our part in making this project a reality.”

Olly Duquemin, CEO of Resolution IT added: “We’re very proud to be involved in such a fantastic community project and to support the Rotary Club in celebrating its centenary. We look forward to watching how the build progresses over summer and seeing the legacy of the Pavilion live on.” 

Pictured top: The Japanese Fishing Pavilion before its closure (Credit: Chris George) and the replacement currently under construction.