A SKATEPARK could finally be built at South Hill if plans are approved – but it would only be a temporary facility.
A decision was made by the States in 2021 to submit applications for two parks following difficulty in finding an appropriate location for a single facility.
A £1.9 million facility was opened at Les Quennevais in 2023, but the South Hill satellite site has never progressed.
Now, the government has submitted a planning application for a skatepark in St Helier. It would then be turned into a cycle facility when the Fort Regent redevelopment is complete – which is set to include a skatepark.
The planning application initially seeks to construct a reinforced concrete skatepark area at the reversing bays, using “robust, durable and moveable skatepark equipment and obstacles”.
If approved, the first phase would also involve resurfacing, fencing, screening and landscaping work – as well as plans for an accessible toilet with a baby changing facility, covered cycle parking, street furniture, lighting, CCTV and associated utility infrastructure.
Additionally, changes would be made to the existing reversing bays and minor works undertaken to relocate a memorial stone and bench.
“Moveable skatepark equipment is proposed to enable it to be reused and relocated either to Fort Regent or other suitable areas around the Island,” the statement said.
“All other on-site infrastructure constructed as part of the proposed development will remain as part of the cycle park.
“Any future skate facility reusing the skatepark equipment and obstacles will be covered by a separate planning application.”
The application forms part of the government’s ‘New Skateparks’ project, which has included the construction of the Les Quennevais park.
Efforts by previous governments to progress proposals for a skatepark at South Hill have struggled for a variety of reasons – including heritage concerns and changes in funding plans.
Funding for the planned new facility has been earmarked in the government’s proposed Budget for 2026-29.
“The proposed development will initially provide a skatepark facility that will replace the vital St Helier facility that was lost when New North Quay Skatepark was decommissioned,” the planning statement added.
