Well, it’s finally arrived in Sydney Gardens – but in a different location to the one first intended.
This is the Admiral Arthur Phillip Armillary Sphere tribute sculpture and Memorial which was originally installed in the middle of a specially-created garden beside the Assembly Rooms.
It was dedicated to the man who led that ‘First Fleet’ of transported convicts and civilians to New South Wales, Australia and became the first governor of this recently formed colony on the other side of the world.
Admiral Phillip retired to Bath and ended his days in a house across the road from the Assembly Rooms. The memorial to him was unveiled in 2012 to mark the 200th anniversary of his death.
The re-location was necessary because the area is needed for what l believe is an extension to catering facilities at the Assembly Rooms which is being redeveloped by the National Trust – who own it – as a “Georgian Experience.”
It was known the globe was coming to Sydney Gardens although – originally – it was to be sited across the way from the Roasted Lemon Cafe kiosk at the bottom of the park.
It’s going to look equally impressive being just inside the side entrance in Sydney Road – whatever the reason for the re-think.
