A MUSEUM and welcome centre is due to be created at a St Catherine’s bunker site that once served as a stronghold for German forces during the Occupation.
Ports of Jersey has accepted a joint business proposal, from Jersey War Tours and Jersey Seafaris, which it said would showcase the “rich cultural heritage of the area”.
Ports previously sought expressions of interest for the location, after leaseholders Jersey Turbot Farm gave notice in October that they were ending their long association with the bunker.
Describing the proposal as a “new beginning”, a Ports of Jersey spokesperson said the organisation hoped that turning the bunker, tunnels and outside area into a museum and welcome centre would create a “hub for tourists seeking an immersive and educational experience”.
Ports of Jersey events and project support manager Kim Gilbraith said the “combined proposal will make the site accessible to all and incorporate the area into a bigger ‘land to sea’ historical tour”.
She added: “The two organisations have demonstrated the knowledge, resources and passion to transform and preserve the tunnels and we look forward to working with them to realise their plans.
“St Catherine’s war tunnels hold a profound historical significance, and we felt that this proposal demonstrated a clear and achievable plan that fits in well with the area.”
Phil Marett, from Jersey War Tours, said: “The team at JWT is very excited to start on this new project and is looking forward to working with Jersey Seafaris and the Ports of Jersey to open up the unique fortifications at St Catherine. This work will be challenging, but we have great supporters backing us and look forward to sharing the journey.”
Dan Luce, from Jersey Seafaris, said they were “delighted to take on this new project” along with the two other organisations.
He added: “This rare opportunity will showcase our impressive wartime and maritime history in a magnificent setting. We hope to involve the community through the restoration journey, so that this project benefits locals and tourists for years to come.”
Ports of Jersey said they would now work on details of the new agreement with both organisations.
