The strategy, which is due to set out long-term plans for existing sports centres on the Island – as well as potential new developments, including a new stadium – was expected to be released in autumn last year but has suffered a series of delays.
In addition, a further, separate consultation has been commissioned by the government regarding the possible relocation of existing tenants at Fort Regent.
Deputy Raymond, who holds political responsibility for sport, also advised it was likely the vaccination centre at the Fort will extend its stay to September.
‘What were trying to do is put everything together at the same time. I’ve put it back ten to 14 days. We’re there. It’s basically done,’ said Raymond of the report.
‘We’re looking circa 17 March. We have everything in line but it’s no good talking to the people in the Fort, which we’re doing, if we don’t know where they are going. I said we’ve got the strategy going and we want to release it but it does depend on a lot of the fiscal applications with regards to what we can do with some of our properties.’
It is thought by those in government that the Fort is no longer a suitable venue for many clubs due to disrepair in the building and an urgent need to redevelop the site. Policy makers are also considering that the future of the venue be used as a hub for culture and entertainment on the Island, rather than sport.
‘I wanted a cohesive policy of saying “this is what we are going to do, this is what we’ve got and this is how we’re going to do it’’,’ Raymond added.
‘The one thing I can assure you is that it is all coming together. It’s looking good.’
