Major works planned for St Helier Marina

Ports of Jersey is making further investment in its marinas with major works planned to refurbish St Helier Marina.

Up to £3.5m is being invested in the project to enhance the facilities, part of which will involve the removal and replacement of the aged guide piles and pontoons that have reached the end of their serviceable life.

“We have consulted and engaged extensively with local boat owners, marine traders and yacht clubs who have helped us consider the options and design layouts,” says the island’s harbour master, Captain Bill Sadler, on behalf of Ports of Jersey. “We welcomed their feedback, and the final solution was that the existing layout of St Helier was the preferred most ergonomic option and was overwhelmingly supported by them.”

To complete the planned improvements, the water in St Helier Marina will need to be drained significantly, with vessels currently moored in the marina needing to be temporarily relocated to other berths, moorings, or storage ashore. Pedestrian access will largely be unaffected, but for safety reasons some areas of the New North Quay will be closed off at times.

“It’s inevitable that with such a large project there will be some disruption and impact on our boat owners in this marina,” continues Sadler, “but the overall benefits once completed we believe will far outweigh this temporary disruption.”

CEO for Ports of Jersey, Matt Thomas, comments: “The need for significant investment in St Helier Harbour has not changed, as already demonstrated by the work being carried out on the Elizabeth Marina Storm Gate and the current upgrade to the Albert Pier. The much-needed refurbishment of St Helier Marina is the next stage of our broader investment plans for the area and to support our valued marina community.”

Following a tender process in 2019, Channel Islands-based contractor, Geomarine, has been appointed to undertake the work. The company has carried out several projects for Ports of Jersey in recent years, including the current refurbishment work on the Albert Pier.

Work is due to start in September and has an overall completion date of May 2022.