History was made on Monday when the iconic HMS Ganges mast in Shotley Gate was ceremoniously taken down.

Joint developers Wavensmere Homes, in partnership with Galliard Homes, held a special ceremony to mark the removal of the ceremonial mast on the former HMS Ganges development, Barrelmans Point. 

The ceremony was held on Monday 6 June marking 46 years to the day since the closure of the royal naval training establishment. 

In attendance, were key stakeholders of the area including members from Babergh District Council, Shotley Parish Council, trustees of the HMS Ganges Museum and ex-ganges recruits who trained at the establishment. Members of the Royal Hospital School marching band also played in tribute to the mast along with a bugler. 

James Dickens, Managing Director of Wavensmere Homes, said: "I would like to thank all our guests who attended the mast ceremony at Barrelmans Point. It was a significant event marking 46 years to the day since the last parade took place on 6th June 1976 and the closure of HMS Ganges Training Establishment.

"The last piece of the grade II listed mast was removed for restoration to return as the heart of Barrelmans Point for generations to enjoy.

"We appreciate the importance of this asset to ex-Ganges men who trained at this facility and look forward to next steps of the restoration process."

Wavensmere's James Dicken's addressing the guests (Picture credit: Wavensmere)

Babergh's Ganges ward councillor Derek Davis – who is ex-Royal Navy and a former Ganges boy said: "While there was a definite tinge of sadness to see the iconic mast come down, it was joyous in its own way as we appreciate this is a tremendous step forward for the future of our mast.

"The progress being made by Wavensmere Homes and Galliard Homes on Barrelmans Point, the former Ganges, site is exciting for us on the stunning Shotley Peninsula as the jewel in Babergh's crown.

"I know my residents in Ganges ward can't wait to see the mast restored and once again taking pride of place in our village."

Although the event was invite only, organisers, showed discretion by allowing Shotley residents that had gathered by the gate to enter the site and get a closer look at the ceremony at the request of Cllr Davis.

Babergh leader Cllr John Ward added: "This is a great example of how we can work with a responsible developer to create a new community for the future, whilst still preserving our proud heritage from the past."

The development has broken ground to begin the transformation of Barrelmans Point. A stunning coastal development of nearly 300 homes that sits at the southern end of the Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The first phase will offer a total of 81 high specification homes, with options of two, three, four or five bedroom properties.

To express interest visit www.bmpoint.co.uk or call Connells Ipswich on 01473 233966

Shotley estate agent Callum Byford (Picture credit: Wavensmere)

About Wavensmere Homes 

Founded in 2004 Wavensmere Homes is a Midlands based property developer which specialises in unique renovation projects; restoring historic buildings to their former glory and transforming them into extraordinary developments, alongside creating high quality newly built homes. Led by Founder and Managing Director James Dickens, who also owns BJD (GB) Ltd, a successful investment and development company, the senior team at Wavensmere Homes has a strong background in traditional craftsmanship which means that they understand the importance of detail and quality, characteristics which shine through in every one of the company's projects. Past projects include Crocketts Lane and The Forge in Birmingham, Ghyll House Farm in Horsham, Beatrice Court in Lichfield and The Convent in Lapworth. Current developments include Nightingale Quarter in Derby, a flagship project providing 796 properties including apartments and houses. 

www.wavensmere.co.uk

About Galliard 

Founded in 1992, Galliard is one of London's largest developers. Over its 30-year history the Galliard Group has evolved from its residential property origins to be a leading authority and expert in construction and the development of large mixed-use schemes and commercial hospitality premises. The group has just over 330 staff and a development portfolio worth over £4.34 billion, including nearly 6,500 homes, with some 781 homes currently being marketed for sale, and 0.76 million sq. ft. of consented commercial space. In addition, Galliard Homes has over 2000 consented affordable housing units with 608 currently in development. Through strategic joint venture partnerships Galliard Homes has steadily moved into other key cities throughout the UK, and 2017 saw the group acquire a portfolio in Birmingham with a gross development value of over £500 million. Led by Executive Chairman Stephen Conway, who co-founded the company and CEO Don O'Sullivan. 

www.galliardhomes.com.