Why not a Tourism office or an arts and crafts area?

I AM writing to you regarding the application by Jersey Property Holdings to demolish the former Gorey Boat Yard and adjoining Old Sail Loft boutique and to construct three three-bedroom houses with double garages on the site.

If profit is to be the only motive, (and perhaps that is the remit of JPH), then clearly this is a relatively simple solution. Given the location, the properties will undoubtedly sell at a good price and an eyesore in the heart of one of Jersey’s loveliest areas will be removed.

However, I would ask if this development is actually in the long-term best interests not only of Gorey but of the Island. Three more properties at Gorey Harbour will not enhance the area or make it more appealing to both residents and visitors, and I would have hoped that a more imaginative and thoughtful approach might have been given to this development.

The harbour area would greatly benefit from having a focal point, especially for tourists and particularly when poor weather deters people from walking down the pier or exploring the castle.

Might the site not be better used as an interpretation centre, explaining the fascinating history of the port and the castle? There was a display in the former Harbourmaster’s house but this closed when the property was sold.

How about including a small Tourism office so that visitors can find out more about other attractions and events? Most small Normandy ports have a Bureau du Tourism – why should visitors have to go to St Helier to find out what’s on?

How about a Jersey Heritage presence, promoting all their sites but particularly encouraging people to visit the castle? Indeed, the back of the site could feature a lift or escalator to help them reach Mont Orgeuil.

How about a cafe serving traditional Jersey cream teas?

Finally, how about an arts and crafts area featuring artisans’ workshops, artists’ studios, etc? This would provide an excellent permanent location for artists currently working from home who can only promote to the public at fêtes and occasional markets. It would also create a year-round attraction appealing to both residents and visitors – something the east of the Island now lacks following the demise of Jersey Pottery.

With flair, imagination and investment (from the Tourism Development Fund?) these could all be included on the site, enhancing its appeal to everybody, bringing additional trade to the existing businesses in the area and providing Gorey with a focal point, especially for the visitors.

Is there any possibility that before this Planning decision is made, a public meeting might be called to assess what the people of Jersey would like to see done with this important site?

If other JEP readers share my concern and wish to write to Planning about Property Holdings’ application, the reference number is P/2012/1136.