Local property developer Comprop wants to redevelop the site of the existing Southampton Hotel, which currently houses Traders Bar on the ground floor, to create a new five-storey building with a restaurant and offices.
Although the existing buildings would be demolished, the company plans to keep and restore the original façade of the hotel, which became a symbol of the Island’s Liberation in 1945.
The new building would be in keeping with the style of the former hotel frontage and would be similar in height to its nearest neighbour, the Pomme d’Or Hotel.
Comprop managing director, Steve Marie, said the Southampton was significant to Jersey’s history and the development would pay tribute to that fact.
‘Not only does it have a place in the development of St Helier but, since Liberation Day on 9 May 1945, the façade has become part of the recognised face of the end of Jersey’s Occupation,’ he said.
‘We want to respect and celebrate that through refurbishment and redevelopment of this building of special interest. At the moment it is in a very poor state of repair. However, we are going to incorporate and enhance many of the original features, as well as making the building usable in all its aspects.’
The hotel dates back to 1840 and became an important part of the expansion of St Helier as tourists flocked to the area when the railway and Weighbridge were constructed in 1870.
It was expanded at the end of the 19th century when two extra storeys were built. Elaborate iron work was also added to the hotel frontage to enhance the Serlian window on the first floor and the Trafalgar style balcony with canopy on the second floor.
And as well as pledging to deal with the project sensitively, Mr Marie also said Comprop intended to carry out the works with the least amount of disruption possible.
‘This is an exciting opportunity,’ he said. ‘Through it we are able to fully support the regeneration of this part of St Helier and complement the other redevelopments which have already taken place in the area.
‘It is another example of private investment into the Jersey economy; providing much needed work for the construction industry. Through this project we aim to restore the Southampton building to its unique and proper place in history and for its legacy to continue long into the future.’
Comprop is a Channel Island property development company which has worked extensively in Guernsey in the past. As well as the Southampton Hotel, its current projects in Jersey include plans for 70-72 the Esplanade, the current Club 72, and the old Jersey Brewery site at Ann Street.
