The Princess Royal Union Lodge has been declared a listed building, however, a wooden house in St David’s has been delisted.

According to notices appearing in yesterday’s edition of The Royal Gazette, Hureka House on Lighthouse Lane will be removed from the list of historical and architecturally significant buildings. The building had been given a Grade 3 listing in August of 2002.

The notice stated the decision was made by Michael Fahy, the Minister of Home Affairs, after public consultation and discussion with the Historic Buildings Advisory Committee.

Speaking about the decision yesterday, Rick Spurling of the St David’s Historical Society said he believed the building was not in good condition and it was difficult to find those with the money and the inclination to protect such buildings.

“Nothing lasts for ever and most importantly it is critical to preserve [usually at some extra cost] the most important historical sites.

“Most of the forts are in great need of care and preservation. That’s where money needs to go.”

Mr Spurling said the Bermuda National Trust had done a remarkable job of preserving the island’s heritage, but there was always more work that needs to be done.

“There is simply little money for historic preservation, but thanks to those hardworking dedicated souls of the Bermuda National Trust and a number of caring donors and smaller groups such as Carter House, we do have something to show for our heritage,” he said.

Meanwhile the Princess Royal Union Lodge, better known as Samaritan’s Hall, will be given a Grade 3 listing, according to a separate notice.

The Princess Royal Union Lodge was built by members of the Wilson, Dill and DeShields families. While the lodge was established in 1899, the building was not officially dedicated until 1924.

Since then, it has served as a schoolroom for generations of students, a church meeting place, a youth club, a concert hall and a meeting place for members of the friendly society.

The building was proposed for listing by Senator Fahy in March, with the listing decision made on April 15.