Somerset Bridge And Southlands Now Listed
The Minister of Home Affairs Michael Fahy today [Jan 8] advised that Somerset Bridge — the smallest drawbridge in the world – has officially been designated as a Grade HM Structure [Historic Monument] and Southlands has been designated as a Grade 2 Listed Building.
This follows a period of public consultation ending 31 December 2014. There were no objections from members of the public and all submissions to the Ministry supported the proposed Listings.
There are now 779 Listed Buildings in Bermuda.
Along with the Tucker’s Town Cemetery and the eight buildings in the City of Hamilton, 11 Listed Buildings have been added to the list of architecturally and/or historically significant buildings in Bermuda in the last two years.
‘Grade HM’ refers to buildings which are of historic significance and structural interest that makes them of vital historic importance. They are integral to both the Island’s history and to its cultural tourism. Alterations should normally be avoided and restoration should be on a like-for-like basis.
Slideshow showing a look at the Southlands property
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‘Grade 2’ refers to buildings, structures or groups of buildings that are of such special interest and architectural or historical value that alterations and additions should be limited to works that do not impinge on those parts of the building to be protected and preserved. Such works should normally be carried out in the structural and decorative style of the existing buildings.
“Somerset Bridge is an iconic structure in Bermuda and is known internationally as the smallest drawbridge in the world,” said Minister Fahy.
“It is emblematically Bermudian and appears on the back of the new Bermudian $5 note. By listing it as a Grade HM or Historic Monument Listed Building it ensures the protection of the structure for years to come.
“Likewise, I felt that the many examples of traditional Bermudian architecture seen at Southlands were worth preserving for future generations – both visitors and residents alike.”
The Minister extends his appreciation to the Department of Parks for nominating Southlands for the designation, and the Sandys Parish Council for nominating Somerset Bridge.
Well done again Minister Fahy!
And what about Queen of the East?
Me seems to remember learning in school that drawbridges open… so this confuses me as the one at Somerset appears to just be one metal plate affixed to either side at the moment…
it used to open many years ago
Well yes, the drawbridge itself hasn’t been operational in some time, but it’s still a historical site worth noting.
excellent news.
Is that the Southlands that was almost bulldozed???
Now we can watch the main house crumble I dont get it.
The draw bridge is nothing new .
By the way the is a smaller functioning draw bridge in the UK ~~~ and it was not just built yesterday either.
We need to invent some more novelties like an affordable vacation.