OPINION remains divided on the new Chinese pavilion taking shape in Stratford.
Craftsmen have made significant progress putting up the new attraction in Firs Garden since they arrived along with the structure earlier this month.
The town was gifted the peony pavilion by Fuzhou city where a replica Shakespeare’s Birthplace and other local landmarks are being constructed.
But the siting of the seven metre structure in the Grove Road park has been a sore point with nearby residents.
They argued the new addition would encourage anti-social behaviour, was out of keeping with the surrounding area, and a road safety hazard.
But pictures of its burgeoning development on Facebook has seen users divided.
One user said: “I think it’s going to look amazing, a great addition to a unused park.”
Another added it looked great, was not very big and ‘fitted neatly’ in the park.
While others were still frustrated by its location away from the town centre: “It is totally out of keeping with the area and can’t be justified as a tourist draw when it is dangerous to reach it, there is no parking, no toilets and no visitor information.”
Former mayor Roy Lodge was among residents outraged by the decision. He told the Observer the issue may be referred to the local government Ombudsman for failure to address residents’ concerns.
Stratford District Council maintained the pavilion would enhance the park and help boost tourism in the area.
