VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Seychelles National Heritage Resource Council is to implement new security measures at Venn’s Town, Mission Lodge, at Sans Soucis, in the wake of a fire alleged to be arson that destroyed the View Lodge last Friday evening. Restoration work is already under way, and a site visit was carried out on Thursday to assess progress and plan the next steps.
The Venn’s Town site, part of the Mission Ruins on Mahé, sits inside the Morne Seychellois National Park at an altitude of 450 metres and is served by the public road linking Victoria, Sans Souci and Port Glaud. The viewpoint kiosk had been one of the most visited heritage attractions on the western coast, and the council has stressed that safeguarding the site is a national priority.
The fire, categorised as suspected arson, has prompted calls for a broader review of security arrangements at the country’s open heritage sites. The council has indicated that the new measures will include improved surveillance, controlled access, and closer coordination with the Seychelles Police and other relevant agencies.
Earlier this week, the Mission Lodge viewpoint was reported to be on course to reopen to visitors within weeks, after what officials described as a swift restoration effort. The council has not yet confirmed a reopening date pending completion of the security upgrades.
