A NEW drive to turn the Central Market into “the jewel in the crown of St Helier” with live entertainment, extended opening hours and more al fresco dining has been unveiled by the government.
Several initiatives have already been undertaken to achieve the goal of revitalising the market and increasing footfall, but Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel has said he anticipates the “finished product” being completed before the end of 2026.
A project board and new traders’ group have been created to steer the work, which has so far included creating a new “brand identity” for the market and social media presence, preparing a bid for Government Plan funding, holding events such as the Asian Food Market to celebrate the Lunar New Year, introducing pop-up shops in vacant units, and late openings at some of the food venues.
A “project update” report released by the government yesterday morning revealed further steps due to be taken, including transforming the cobblestone unloading bay in Halkett Place into an outdoor dining area, along with the area next to the French Lane entrance near the market.
The report also revealed plans to scrap traditional Thursday afternoon closures, and to extend late-night dining services into 2024.
Increasing signposting to help tourists, and introducing more planters and bike racks outside entrances were also highlighted.
Deputy Morel estimated that the market was worth “millions” to the economy every year.
“It is an important part of St Helier with many businesses operating within it.
“We are at the beginning of the process so we don’t have an exact timeline,” he added, although he noted that some initiatives had already started.
“Things like branding and social media, we can just get on with – whereas things that require a planning application will take more time.
“I think we are looking to 2025 or 2026 for the finished product. I know that we really do want to get it done before the end of this term of office.”
Infrastructure Minister Tom Binet said: “The markets should be the jewel in the crown of St Helier and are long overdue for some attention.
“We’re now taking the next steps to make sure the Jersey markets have a bright and exciting future.
“I’ve spent time speaking to the tenants at length to understand their big issues and want to work with them to create thriving markets at the centre of improved public realm. Islanders are supportive of the markets and want to see them buzzing with activity, and we acknowledge that the consumer experience needs to improve.
“I want to see the markets alive with events and retail entertainment. We’re already looking at extended opening hours, perhaps a new performance area for live entertainment, ways in which we can introduce more seating within the current layout, and how we can allocate space to business start-ups.”
The report also said that a more “strategic approach” to tenants will be taken going forward.
More recently, small businesses have also been invited to apply for short-term lets as a means of encouraging entrepreneurship and potential new tenants who can test their ideas without having to make a long-term commitment.
As part of the development, pop-up shops have emerged within the market’s vacant units as a platform for local artists to display their creative works.
