Pavilion Not Enough for Conan Doyle

I wrote to the Editor of the Haslemere Herald and the following was published today:

"I write in response to the article in the Herald three weeks ago concerning the inclusion of a pavilion in the grounds of Undershaw to honour the history of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Surely he is worth more recognition than a basic structure housing a board giving visitors a brief outline of his connection with Hindhead. This will not compensate for the loss of a landmark that has been with us since 1897.

The Undershaw Preservation Trust are mortified to think that Waverley Borough Council are likely to support this move which may possibly be included in the developers plans, a move that I feel should be seriously re-considered.

It appears that Undershaw has been nothing but a burden to Waverley. If the developers had looked after the building in the first place - all the repairs that needed to be complied with would not have caused Waverley this aggro in the first place. Please let the people who care about the building have their say and give the Trust a chance.

It's about time Waverley sat up and listened to what most of the locals would like to see and to what the Trust has to offer. Does Hindhead really want another housing complex when there are others being erected within walking distance from Undershaw?

I would also like to say that I fully support the letter written by Mr John Gibson, FRICS, who has set up and registered the Undershaw Preservation Trust. The Trust's aims are to prevent Undershaw from being converted into separate units, but for the house to remain as one. The Trust would also like to see the inclusion of a museum and cafeteria within the building with public access retained.

May I also take this opportunity of thanking all those who have taken their time to write to this section of the Herald in support of Conan Doyle and his home Undershaw

Lynn Gale, Undershaw Preservation Trust

You too can have your say in response to this article by writing to: 114/115 West Street, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7HL or e-mail at: farnham-herald@internet-today.co.uk e-mails must show full postal address.