News Releases
Government Home Search Sitemap Contact Us  


NLIS 1
April 6, 2000
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)


Minister announces funding to restore Bonavista Lighthouse Provincial Historic Site

Charles Furey, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced $600,000 in funding to complete restoration work to the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse Provincial Historic Site. Pre-qualification of tenders will take place immediately, with tenders being called by the end of April. The work is scheduled to begin in mid-June 2000, and completed by the end of November 2000.

"The Cape Bonavista Lighthouse is the top attraction among the Provincial Historic Sites in the province, with annual visitation of more than 15,000. This site is an important part of the province�s cultural infrastructure and is a great complement to the Mockbeggar Plantation Provincial Historic Site, the Ryan Premises National Historic Site and the other major cultural attractions in Bonavista," said Minister Furey. "Restoration of this site is necessary, and is a part of government�s commitment to exercising proper stewardship in maintaining and preserving our outstanding cultural heritage resources for future generations to enjoy."

The work will involve the removal and complete restoration of the dome on the lighthouse, complete restoration of the foundation and minor exterior work on the roof and siding of the facility. Government approved funding last year which allowed for the completion of the engineering drawings so that work could proceed as early as possible this year.

"It is our intention to keep the lighthouse building open for as much of the season as possible during the renovations. However, there may be occasions when the building will have to close, at which time the public would certainly be advised," said Furey. "We have already advised motorcoach operators and other out-of-province tour operators that access to certain parts of the facility will be limited this year. People are very understanding, as they realize that this work is necessary for the longevity of the site."

The other attractions on the site will remain open throughout the season, including the interpretation centre, the seabird colony on the adjoining island and the local craft store.

Media contact: Mary MacNab, Communications, (709) 729-0928, or (709) 682-0366.

2000 04 06 9:00 a.m.


SearchHomeBack to GovernmentContact Us


All material copyright the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. No unauthorized copying or redeployment permitted. The Government assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any material deployed on an unauthorized server.
Disclaimer/Copyright/Privacy Statement