A PETITION has been lodged with the aim of preventing the conversion of the free upstairs atrium at Jersey Airport into a “premium” lounge describing the move as a “profit-driven misuse of the space”.
More than 260 Islanders had signed Theodore Jenner’s petition, as the JEP went to print yesterday.
Ports of Jersey’s plans for the new lounge, which will be operated by travel hospitality firm No1 Lounges, were heavily criticised by Islanders when they were first announced. Access to the current upstairs lounge has already been restricted as work on the renovation begins – which led to further criticism over the festive period owing to a lack of space for passengers who were affected by fog disruption.
In response to concerns, Ports released a statement saying plans included a first-floor space with sea and runway views, an “open to all” roof terrace and a “fun” play area for children.
In his petition Mr Jenner called the premium lounge a “profit-driven misuse of the space” which should be prevented “at all costs”.
He said: “The upstairs viewing area harkens to the older days of airline travel and should be preserved for future generations to enjoy at no extra cost. The space is unique in providing peace and quiet to troubled and stressed travellers. It also allows for increased capacity in the event of delays or additional flights during busy periods.”
Ports says the development forms part of its long-term plan to renovate the Airport’s departures and arrivals terminals.
Much of the response on social media to the initial announcement was highly critical, with around 200 comments posted within a day of this newspaper’s report.
Concerned Islanders, including families with young children, described the quieter atrium as a “life-saver” during delays.
One Islander labelled the plans “absolutely greedy and shameful”.
Another said: “Why make this area premium? It should be accessible to everyone. Ports of Jersey, you’ve made a bad error here.”
