TOWN representatives have backed large-scale plans to transform the Waterfront – but want to see investment in the rest of St Helier.
Constable Simon Crowcroft and town centre and events manager Connor Burgher have both said the Jersey Development Company’s ten-year plan to regenerate the Waterfront will increase the number of Islanders and tourists that come into the parish.
However, Mr Crowcroft said some areas of town were ‘looking tired’ and hoped the government would not become overly-focused on ‘flagship’ developments.
And Mr Burgher said the JDC should consider how the scheme might affect the town centre and high-street shops – although he noted that it would increase footfall in the area.
The plans include around 1,000 new homes, an ‘arthouse’ cinema, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a number of shops and restaurants.
Mr Crowcroft said: ‘I absolutely support investment in the town centre and the Waterfront – it will attract more Islanders and visitors to St Helier.’
However, he said there was a risk that the government could become solely interested in ‘prodigious, flagship schemes’.
‘There is nothing wrong with that, but there also needs to be investment in the residential streets of St Helier,’ he said.
Earlier this week the parish’s roads committee approved the creation of five ‘Neighbourhood Improvement Areas’ – which will involve engagement with residents about the changes they want to see – such as more green space or the creation of cycle routes.
This included areas around Lewis Street, Poonah Road, Dorset Street, Stopford Road and Havre des Pas.
Mr Crowcroft said: ‘Parts of St Helier, where thousands of residents live, are looking very tired.
‘For example, some of the pavements near where I live are broken.’
Giving his initial reaction to the JDC’s plans, Mr Burgher said: ‘Any investment in St Helier is always welcome news, but it is also important that we maintain our commitment to the town centre and existing high street – I hope this is kept in consideration while the proposals are developed.’
