Both Sides of The Coin: The Story of The Central Bank of Barbados 1972-2017

110 place where staff could find some solitude away from the rigours of work. However, over time it became increasingly difficult for the staff to do so and the space fell into disuse. After years of discussion, it was decided to renovate it as an alternative venue for functions and the refurbished space was opened in April 2004. The need for additional office space for staff was one of the drivers behind the purchase of the old Masonic Lodge building in 2006. However, in 2010 it was decided that it would be better for Bridgetown’s status as a World Heritage site to construct a museum instead. The new design called for an art gallery, a numismatic museum and exhibitions of commerce, trade and education, as well as free masonry. An oversight committee including Bank staff and representatives of other interest groups, was chosen by the Bank to advise on the conversion of the Masonic Lodge and the re-development of the Church Village area. 68 This committee collaborated with the architect in ensuring that some of the heritage features of the structure, for example the domed ceiling, were retained. The renovations to the building started in May 2011 and the new Exchange Museum was officially opened in April 2016. Efforts to upgrade the Church Village area resulted in the establishment of the Church Village Green, which has, inter alia , a water feature, a concession stand and an amphitheatre. 69 Left: Aerial view of the Church Village Green. Right: A function in the Inner Courtyard. The restored Masonic Lodge is now the Exchange Museum.