Cerro Grande then and now

Bob D sent me a picture of the Cerro Grande (Windmill Hill) area which I was asked to compare with the current scene. The result is below. We are not sure of the date, probably though 1970’s, early 80’s at the latest (Any ideas welcome!) The windmill stands out as one recognisable landmark in both. The construction of the marina and the new developments on the hill have changed most of the area considerably. The pictures were taken from the hill on the far side of the modern marina. I suspect that the cliffs have fallen back a few metres since the original, or perhaps the photographer stood nearer the edge than I dared to on a very windy day.

The ruins in the centre of the ‘today’ picture are the ill-fated Crowne Plaza hotel and associated development. It has been left abandoned, unfinished and gradually being reclaimed by nature for about eight years.

Click or tap the see the picture larger, click or tap again when you get there to see it full size.