St Helena : St Helena PROGRESS ON MAIN STREET, JAMESTOWN
Submitted by Saint Helena Herald (Public Relations Information Office) 17.03.2012 (Article Archived on 31.03.2012)
St Helena Tourism has become aware that some concerns have been expressed about the work taking place regarding the pavements in Main Street.
PROGRESS ON MAIN STREET, JAMESTOWN
St Helena Tourism has become aware that some concerns have been expressed about the work taking place regarding the pavements in Main Street.
The details of this project were finalised after public consultations and long discussion in the Tourism and Leisure Committee. The work was placed after a tender process which detailed the specific works required.
The work outside New Porteus House is allowing the work specifications to be refined in the light of the situation on (and under) the ground, as we recognise it is important that we get the work right and protect our heritage, both here and along the rest of Main Street. The original paving surface of cobbles will be left in situ and carefully covered in order to protect it. The cobbles will only be affected when it is necessary to trench for essential utilities ducting or for other agreed work. In such an event the beetle stones will be retained and stored for use in future heritage projects. There is absolutely no proposal to cause any damage to our shared heritage, and the contractors are well aware of their responsibilities in the regard.
The decision to use concrete paving slabs flowed directly from the public consultation and was agreed by the Tourism and Leisure Committee. The most “correct” option would have been to uncover the original beetle stone cobbles, but this was felt to be inappropriate and dangerous to pedestrians, as well as not being friendly to pushchairs, wheelchairs and the like. Replacing the existing concrete was felt to be completely out of character with Jamestown, and laying stone slabs was both financially and practically unrealistic. Therefore custom-made concrete paving slabs was the best option.
The slabs to be used have a riven stone surface, and a mix of sizes will be used to break up the layout. Tinting will also be used to darken the concrete mix to provide a darker stone colour. Of course the concrete will also naturally darken over a short period of time. The use of concrete slabs is also practical in that any future works in Main Street simply mean removal of the slabs, rather than drilling through concrete.
The original black basalt kerb stones, which have long been hidden, are being raised to the existing pavement height, so they provide a proper and distinct edge to the pavements.
The work will be in line with the agreed plan for Main Street, which recognises both its important historical aspect, but also the practical needs of a living, working town. We are committed to working with all interested parties to achieve the most practical and sustainable outcome for Jamestown.
St Helena Tourism
8th March 2012
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