NEGOTIATIONS with some of the sports clubs moving out of Fort Regent are still “ongoing” just months before the iconic facility closes for refurbishment – with some groups unhappy that a higher rate has been proposed to move elsewhere.
A number of sports groups and services have already left Fort Regent and agreed alternative arrangements, but the Infrastructure and Environment Department said that it remained “committed” to reaching agreements with the clubs yet to do so.
The latest vision for the historic site – produced alongside the States of Jersey Development Company – includes plans for a rooftop bar, six-screen cinema, indoor climbing wall, 2,500-seat acoustic theatre in Gloucester Hall, plus a hotel.
Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan has previously stated that the government will “support all remaining sports based at Fort Regent to relocate to new or existing facilities across the Island,” including Springfield, Les Quennevais and Oakfield.
The brand-new Oakfield facility is due to open in October.
In a statement, the Infrastructure and Environment Department said that it was “currently working closely with sports clubs transferring from Fort Regent to Oakfield to finalise booking schedules and ensure a smooth transition”.
“As part of this process, clubs have been offered the opportunity to transfer on their existing Fort Regent rates, adjusted for cost of living, for a two-year period,” the statement continued.
The JEP understands that some clubs are unhappy with the higher rates.
The statement said however that the adjustment for inflation was “agreed at Ministerial level to support continuity and affordability for local sports groups”.
The statement added: “Our team is continuing to liaise regularly with each club to find the most suitable arrangement for their needs.
“Negotiations are ongoing with a small number of clubs, and we remain committed to working with them to reach agreements.”
