JERSEY War Tunnels has been forced to close during half term because of “technical issues” caused by heavy rain and water ingress.
UK specialists have been drafted in to fix the damage, with repairs not expected to be finished this week. The site was originally scheduled to close for the winter on Sunday 29 October.
Jersey War Tunnels, which was dug into the St Lawrence hillside by forced and slave workers, contains a collection of exhibits telling the story of the Island’s occupation by the German forces.
The site “has been compelled to make the difficult decision to shut early due to technical issues caused by heavy rain and water entering the tunnels”, according to a statement released on Monday 23 October.
General manager Anthony Clarke said they were “disappointed” to close early, adding: “Maintaining such a unique and special site does come with its challenges, and the water has beaten us on this occasion.
“We are having to call in experts from the UK to fix the damage caused by the water, and sadly that couldn’t be done within the next week. We want everyone who visits the site to have the best experience possible, which is why we took the difficult decision to close early.”
Mr Clarke added: “We appreciate every bit of support. We will see you all again in 2024 for the next exciting summer season.”
