HOLIDAYMAKERS could get the opportunity to stay overnight in the marina – if a set of floating flats, described as “cosy boltholes”, receives planning permission.
An application by Ports of Jersey proposes building six one-bedroom apartments, designed for short stays, on the water in the St Helier Marina, and accessed via the Albert Pier.
Ports head of maritime operations Louise Stafford said: “They would be available to rent, primarily by people arriving in RIBs and other boats without cabin facilities.”
She added that Islanders would also be able to rent the pods. The pods are a common sight in marinas in other places.
Mrs Stafford said the area being proposed for the accommodation was too shallow for large yachts, adding: “This is a great way to help the blue economy and add to Jersey’s tourism offering.”
The cabins would be connected to all mains services, she explained, including electricity, running water and sewerage.
Waddington Architects, who are the designers for the project for Ports of Jersey, explained in the application that local harbours were not experienced by most people unless they were boat owners.
“The pontoons project offers locals and visitors alike the opportunity to live at the surface of the harbour waters, to experience the tidal ranges and maritime environment,” the design statement explains.
“A unique sense of place awaits discovery in these cosy boltholes. Stepping onto dry land becomes another experience, as does enjoying the peaceful harbour basin, tucked below, and sheltered from the noisy road level.”
The pontoons themselves are described as “factory-made, nautically inspired structures, providing a comfortable place to stay”.
The planning application explains that the floating flats will have small outdoor decks, with each having a slightly different colour scheme as well as identification numbers on the roof.
“They are intended to sit quietly in the marina and will, we hope, offer many people a unique and delightful experience,” added Waddington Architects.
A decision is expected at the end of November.
