THE government has defended its decision to take vacant possession of the Lido – as politicians prepare to debate the site’s future.
Responding to a proposition from St Helier Deputy David Warr, due to be debated during this week’s States sitting, the Council of Ministers said the site needed a “fresh start”.
Management of the area recently became a political issue after concerns were raised about its condition, when negotiations floundered and the BeServed Group was told by the government to end its operations at the Lido by the end of October.
Expressions of interest are being sought from prospective new operators, with a formal tender process expected to be held at a later date.
Prior to this, Deputy Warr had lodged a proposition asking the government to put the contract for the management and maintenance of the Havre des Pas Bathing Pool and Café out to tender – something he has since acknowledged no longer needs a vote.
But his proposal also asks that the current operator be permitted to continue to trade as normal until the tender process is completed.
The government has said it cannot support this, arguing that doing so “would maintain the unsatisfactory status quo” and “prevent vacant possession being taken”. It added that such as scenario would “stand in the way of the fresh start that is needed for the Lido”.
“The commitment of the Council of Ministers to Havre des Pas is resolute. Ministers wish to move forward with further investment in the Havre des Pas Lido, and in the wider Havre des Pas area.
“Our objective is to ensure that Havre des Pas is protected for the future, and from those solid foundations to enable the Lido to become a vibrant public asset which is accessible all-year round for inclusive community use.”
A “Save Our Lido” demonstration in support of Deputy Warr’s proposition is due to be held in the Royal Square on Wednesday at 12.30pm.
Explaining the rationale for the protest on its Facebook event page, organisers wrote: “If this proposition fails, the current tenants and staff will all lose their jobs.
“The Lido will be closed and all the current facilities stripped out, leaving the site to rot until new tenants can be found.”
