Royal Gazette: Call for update on work to protect World Heritage Site
A charity has called for an update on efforts to safeguard St George’s World Heritage Site status in the wake of the 25th anniversary of its designation.
The Bermuda National Trust said in a statement that it had requested a meeting with the Government and stakeholders to support a “co-ordinated path forward” after a Unesco report highlighted key gaps in the management and governance of the site last year.
However, the charity said that as of yesterday it had not received a response.
Charlotte Andrews, the head of cultural heritage at BNT, said the anniversary marked an opportunity and a challenge that it should be both a moment of pride and a catalyst for action.
Dr Andrews said: “Unesco has provided clear guidance, and effective stewardship requires timely communication and government leadership alongside active partnership.
“Protecting our World Heritage Site’s outstanding universal value is a responsibility we all share.
“Many partners contribute expertise, resources and community engagement, but progress depends on Government establishing the framework and direction needed for genuine collective stewardship — to protect our heritage for generations to come and support our unique cultural tourism product.
“This anniversary should mark not only 25 years of recognition, but the beginning of a more sustainable future for Bermuda’s World Heritage Site.”
A government spokesman did not respond to a request for comment as of press time.