Historical Lookout Tower To Be Demolished
“The decision to demolish the tower has not been taken lightly,” stated Minister of Public Works Lt/Col David Burch on the decision to demolish the Lookout Tower near Paynter’s Road, Hamilton Parish.
The Government spokesperson said, “The tower is a historical landmark located within the woodland reserve and originally erected by the US Navy during World War II to serve as a lookout point for potential attacks on the Island.
“The structure has been leased to Tucker’s Point Hotel for a number of years and has recently undergone structural assessments revealing the tower’s condition has reached a critical state, rendering it unsafe for restoration or public access.”
Minister Burch added: “Following consultations with the Department of Planning and the Historic Buildings Advisory Committee [HBAC] – demolition is the only practical option.”
The Government spokesperson said, “The HBAC’s recommendation for a photographic survey and the comprehensive documentation of the tower before its demolition aligns with the Government’s commitment to preserving historical records for future generations.
“The Tucker’s Point Hotel has expressed its intent to surrender its lease for the area, thereby returning the land surrounding the Lookout Tower to Government management.
“In assuming this responsibility there is an expectation that public use of the Nature Reserve around Paynter’s Hill will likely increase and it would not be safe to do so with the tower in its current state.”
a look out post during WW2 not sure , as i understood it was a radio relay post between the Air force base and NOB and being a historical building ok i guess
really cant be that important today and probably wont be missed. Burch must be nervous on all decisions made lately as the dep prem really couldnt give a dam
Sounds familiar. Another part of Bermuda that has been lost because of the lack of maintenance. Don’t care, the PLP motto.
“The decision to demolish the tower has not been taken lightly,” stated Minister of Public Works Lt/Col David Burch”
Only the first structure of historic significance to be destroyed by the PLP Government this year.
Put a fence around it and take the money that’s left over to fix a few potholes.
Has anyone been up to this tower? It has some of the best views in Bermuda. It should be saved, it is breathtaking up there. It is disappointing that TP Club who leased it didn’t protect it, just let it rot away and then just sold the land around it to build mega houses.
And what nature reserve are they talking about – ‘There is an expectation that public use of the Nature Reserve around Paynter’s Hill will likely increase and it would not be safe to do so with the tower in its current state.’
Please save this tower for all Bermudians and visitors to be able to enjoy it, it really is a special place.