Nick Socrates, who grew up in Jersey and runs Socrates Architects, has drawn up proposals he believes could breathe life back into the east of town and contribute to the future success of an improved Fort.
Under his plans, Snow Hill would be transformed, with the existing public toilets demolished and replaced somewhere more discreet, and the nearby substation and taxi rank relocated.
In their place, an urban park based on a design inspired by the formation of Jersey’s sand dunes could be created with ridges and level changes to create ‘unique spaces and shelter park users from prevailing winter winds’.
‘The aspiration is to create an appropriate natural environment which can be enjoyed throughout the year,’ he said.
And he added: ‘There is a real possibility to introduce at least two high-speed lifts attached to the cliff-face at the rear of the site, transporting the public to the Fort’s historic ramparts which would offer outstanding views, the provision of much more public space and a fresh perspective over St Helier.’
Additionally, he says that Snow Hill and the first half of La Motte Street could be pedestrianised to re-invigorate the area and its shops, an effect he says will also benefit businesses in Colomberie.
‘Uplifting Snow Hill by creating an urban park and new public space, leading to external Fort Regent lifts, as well as the pedestrianisation of first half of La Motte Street are all important potential urban interventions which will act as catalysts for the regeneration of this part of town, contributing to a renewed enthusiasm, focus and access to the Fort, its outstanding views and its future prospects,’ said Mr Socrates.
The area was home to the the St Helier (Snow Hill) Train Station for the Eastern Jersey Railway in 1874, before a bus station was developed there in 1932. Between 1970 and the late 1980s cable cars operated between Snow Hill and the Fort.
It is not the first time a lift has been suggested to connect the area with the Fort. In 1999 two spires containing lifts were mooted and in 2014 the Fort Regent Steering Group presented its vision for the leisure centre including a 120-bedroom hotel, a restaurant and a glass-floored ‘skyway’ platform, all linked to Snow Hill via a lift.
Earlier this year businesses in Colomberie hit back at claims that more and more retailers are leaving the area and relocating to other parts of town, although they admitted that the area could do with a facelift.
Their comments followed the announcement that Mange Tout was to close its shop in the area after 20 years, citing a drop in trade on the road.
Mr Socrates has previously suggested transforming the site of the Steam Clock with an ‘iconic cultural building’ that would attract tourists and Islanders alike and linking the Esplanade to the Waterfront via a bridge.
