Celebration Arch

It is probable that the entry to Greenhill Gardens had a set of iron entrance gates when it was opened in 1872, as the gardens were locked at night, but these had long disappeared. 

To welcome visitors into the peaceful space of the gardens, FOGG called for designs for an entrance arch.  Tina Walton and Simon Meikeljohn, who were established artists and fabricators of metal sculptures, proposed an arch that immediately won approval from the Friends, public and Council. 

Dedicated to Queen Elizabeth 2, it was officially opened on April 1, 2019 by the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Mr Angus Cambell.

The arch’s modern design matches its position near the sea, taking the shape of a wave just as it is breaking with tumbling foam. It is constructed from steel, with a heavy galvanised coat to withstand a least 50 years of sea spray.  It is anchored firmly on concrete footings weighing over 2 tons.