Belmont gingerbread house being demolished

Demolition of the uniquely designed, historical gingerbread style house on Jerningham Avenue in Belmont has started.

The National Trust posted details about the demolition on its website. It said work began last week with the removal of the fence, and added that there have since been reports of trespassing, removal of items and damage to the building.

The National Trust said it was working with the Citizens for Conservation group and has had discussions with Udecott and NH International (Caribbean) to prevent further theft and/or vandalism.

It noted that no prior knowledge of the demolition was received and the space was earmarked for the Ministry of Health’s new office.

“In an inquiry from (Udecott), the National Trust conducted a site visit in 2018 and advised that this building, along with the one on the corner of Jerningham Avenue and Queens Park East, were suitable for restoration and adaptive reuse.

“It was noted that this historic property retained its original design and would be a strong addition to the gingerbread houses of Belmont that could be incorporated into a Belmont heritage district.”

Gingerbread houses are so called because of their unique, elaborately-designed trim – reminiscent of the piping used to decorate the traditional cookie creations.

The National Trust said arrangements were being made to document the site through photography and records and another site, formerly used by the Medical Counselling Centre, that are earmarked to be removed for the new office building.

Anyone with information about the history, design and construction of these buildings, can comment on the National Trust Facebook page (@ttnationaltrust) or contact the trust at info@nationaltrust.tt