PROPOSED safety improvements to the former railway tunnels in St Aubin would allow the site’s tenants – who had previously faced the prospect of having to find new premises – will be able to continue operating there.
Constable Andy Jehan spoke after a planning application was submitted seeking to install fire screens and fire doors, with security gates added to the main tunnel and galleries.
It follows an update earlier this year in which the minister said that said the government had “agreed to undertake work in the tunnels at St Aubin to enable shooting clubs to continue operating there”.
It had previously emerged that the site’s tenants – which also include the owners of Le Petit Train who keep their trains there when they are not in use on the promenade – had been facing the prospect of having to find new premises amid safety concerns.
A petition to remain at the site by the St Brelade’s Smallbore Rifle Club garnered hundreds of signatures.
A cover letter submitted as part of the planning application by Jersey Property Holdings explained that, following risk assessments that had identified a need for upgrades, a number of options had been considered.
This included the possibility of closing the tunnel, which was deemed “not desirable”, as it would “likely accelerate the dilapidation of the listed structure”.
It also stated that relocating the existing users would be “detrimental”, describing them as “very well established” and with “challenging requirements which the tunnels can accommodate”.
“The Government of Jersey property portfolio do not have anything similar that could comfortably re-house these clubs and small businesses,” the letter explained.
“That being housing two trains, and two gun clubs with shooting ranges that require a very long, secure, covered space that provides a secluded environment where they are unlikely to cause a nuisance.”
It also concluded that decanting the clubs and businesses would have “a substantial impact”, noting that the tenants “all serve the community” or the Island’s tourism industry.
The application is also accompanied by a report produced by Jersey War Tours, which outlines the site’s Second World War history and concluded the proposed fire curtains would have “no major impact”.
The Property Holdings cover letter added: “The application to proceed with making the upgrades is the preferred option and in the best interest of the public.
“The improvements will ensure a safe and sustainable future for the existing tenants, who serve the community. It will also ensure a sustainable future for the tunnels themselves.”
Speaking to the JEP, Mr Jehan said he hoped that, subject to planning approval, the government would be able to “crack on” with the upgrades.
“When you see the effort that some of the clubs have put into making it their home, I’m thrilled that they can stay there,” he added.
