IN 2023 I WAS A BIT DISAPPOINTED BY THE CHANGES
Back in 2011 I was getting more than worried about the future of the "follies" in St. Anne's park even though some restoration work was ongoing. Between 2011 and 2023 I was more than pleased by the restoration of most of the follies but when I visited in August 2023 I was really surprised, and not in a good way, by what had been done to the "Yew Circle".
While I don't have access to the specific reasoning behind the park management's decisions, I can offer some context and observations based on available information:
Changes to the Yew Circle:
Loss of the water feature: The central circular basin, which once held a fountain and was stocked with fish, has been filled in and planted. This significantly alters the original design and function of the Yew Circle.
Removal or heavy pruning of the yew hedge: The outer circle of yew trees, which once formed a dense hedge with alcoves and arches, appears to have been thinned out or replaced with different species. This change affects the structure's aesthetic and historical integrity.
Disappearance of the statues: The allegorical Italian statues representing the five continents, once located within the alcoves, are no longer present. Their absence detracts from the original artistic vision of the Yew Circle.
Possible Reasons for the Changes:
Maintenance and upkeep: Maintaining a water feature, a large yew hedge, and delicate statues can be costly and time-consuming. The park management may have opted for a more manageable and sustainable solution.
Changing aesthetics: Tastes and preferences in landscape design evolve over time. The park management may have aimed for a more contemporary look or a design that prioritises certain plant species.
Accessibility and safety: Removing the water feature and potentially modifying the hedge could improve accessibility for visitors and reduce potential safety hazards.
Original Configuration of the Yew Circle:
Central fountain: A large, circular marble basin with a fountain occupied the center of the Yew Circle. It was stocked with fish and served as a focal point.
Yew hedge with alcoves: A dense yew hedge formed the outer circle, with five alcoves and arches at regular intervals.
Allegorical statues: Each alcove contained an Italian statue representing one of the five continents, adding artistic and cultural significance.
Pathway: A pathway likely surrounded the central basin, allowing visitors to admire the fountain and statues from different angles.
While the recent changes to the Yew Circle have undoubtedly altered its appearance and historical character, it's important to remember that landscapes are not static. They evolve over time, reflecting changing priorities, tastes, and resources.
The current state of the Yew Circle may disappoint those who remember its former glory, but it may also offer new perspectives and opportunities for appreciation. The park management's decisions, while controversial, may have been made with the best intentions for the site's long-term sustainability and enjoyment by future generations.
While I don't have access to the specific reasoning behind the park management's decisions, I can offer some context and observations based on available information:
Changes to the Yew Circle:
Loss of the water feature: The central circular basin, which once held a fountain and was stocked with fish, has been filled in and planted. This significantly alters the original design and function of the Yew Circle.
Removal or heavy pruning of the yew hedge: The outer circle of yew trees, which once formed a dense hedge with alcoves and arches, appears to have been thinned out or replaced with different species. This change affects the structure's aesthetic and historical integrity.
Disappearance of the statues: The allegorical Italian statues representing the five continents, once located within the alcoves, are no longer present. Their absence detracts from the original artistic vision of the Yew Circle.
Possible Reasons for the Changes:
Maintenance and upkeep: Maintaining a water feature, a large yew hedge, and delicate statues can be costly and time-consuming. The park management may have opted for a more manageable and sustainable solution.
Changing aesthetics: Tastes and preferences in landscape design evolve over time. The park management may have aimed for a more contemporary look or a design that prioritises certain plant species.
Accessibility and safety: Removing the water feature and potentially modifying the hedge could improve accessibility for visitors and reduce potential safety hazards.
Original Configuration of the Yew Circle:
Central fountain: A large, circular marble basin with a fountain occupied the center of the Yew Circle. It was stocked with fish and served as a focal point.
Yew hedge with alcoves: A dense yew hedge formed the outer circle, with five alcoves and arches at regular intervals.
Allegorical statues: Each alcove contained an Italian statue representing one of the five continents, adding artistic and cultural significance.
Pathway: A pathway likely surrounded the central basin, allowing visitors to admire the fountain and statues from different angles.
While the recent changes to the Yew Circle have undoubtedly altered its appearance and historical character, it's important to remember that landscapes are not static. They evolve over time, reflecting changing priorities, tastes, and resources.
The current state of the Yew Circle may disappoint those who remember its former glory, but it may also offer new perspectives and opportunities for appreciation. The park management's decisions, while controversial, may have been made with the best intentions for the site's long-term sustainability and enjoyment by future generations.
IN 2023 I WAS A BIT DISAPPOINTED BY THE CHANGES