WORK to progress the largest coastal defences project the Island has seen since the 19th century has reached the concept design phase – with a planning application anticipated next year.
The government has provided an update on the Havre des Pas Coastal Flood Alleviation Scheme, which was unveiled by the Infrastructure Department last summer.
Described as Jersey’s largest coastal defences project since the 1800s, the proposals seek to bolster flood-protection from La Collette to La Grande Charrière Slipway and could also see public realm improvements.
A recently-published report summarising the results of a 2025 consultation cited “strong public recognition of the need to reduce coastal flood risk” as well as “broad support for the principle of delivering long-term protection”.
It noted that the scheme is now moving into stage two – concept design.
“At this stage the design will be refined further, continuation of environmental assessments and then the development of updated visualisations,” the report explained.
“Further engagement is expected at the end of 2026 to update stakeholders, as the concept design advances,” it continued.
“A planning application is anticipated by the end of 2027, subject to design development, statutory assessments and governance processes.”
If approved, construction is planned to take place between 2029 and 2034.
Writing in the report’s foreword, Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan said: “Our coastline is one of Jersey’s greatest assets, and protecting it, along with the people who live, work, and spend time here, is a responsibility we take very seriously. “
The minister continued: “The Havre des Pas Coastal Flood Alleviation Scheme is a major step toward ensuring that people’s homes, our infrastructure and our community are protected from the increasing risks of coastal flooding, rising sea levels, and more frequent storm events.
“It is one of the most important resilience projects we are delivering for the Island’s future.”
