£550,000 Upgrade Approved to Improve Accessibility at Trinity Parish Hall
- Apr 17
- 2 min read
Parish officials have approved plans to invest more than half a million pounds in upgrading Trinity Parish Hall, following a parish meeting attended by around 20 islanders.
The project, with a budget of up to £550,000, was agreed after a brief discussion between parishioners and Constable Philip Le Sueur. The improvements aim to modernise the building and make it more accessible, particularly for those with mobility issues.
Mr Le Sueur said the hall had not undergone significant improvements in more than two decades, adding that accessibility concerns had driven the decision.
“Access to our building, especially the office area, has been particularly difficult for people with mobility challenges,” he said. “As a public building, we have a responsibility to provide safe and easy access for everyone, and that’s what this project is about.”
The constable also reassured parishioners that the work would not lead to an increase in parish rates. He confirmed the parish had sufficient funds in reserve to cover the costs while maintaining a healthy financial buffer.
This will be the second time the parish has gone out to tender. Earlier proposals were rejected after costs exceeded expectations and failed to include additional office space for a new member of administrative staff.
Mr Le Sueur highlighted recent safety concerns, recalling an incident where he assisted an elderly parishioner who had fallen at the entrance.
“If you have difficulty lifting your feet, it isn’t easy to move safely around this building,” he said.
The planned upgrades include a redesigned service counter at two heights to accommodate wheelchair users, as well as the installation of a hearing loop system to support those with hearing impairments.
Kaye Nicholson, chief executive of equality and diversity charity Liberate, welcomed the improvements, stressing the importance of accessible public spaces.
“Accessibility of public spaces remains vital in Jersey so individuals can take part in cultural life and exercise civic rights, including voting, as many parish halls serve as polling stations,” she said.
Work could begin as early as the end of June and is expected to take around five months. During construction, parish officials say they will work closely with contractors to ensure services continue with minimal disruption.
The upgrades are intended to modernise the building and ensure it remains fit for purpose for years to come.
