Architect Questions Feasibility of New Jersey College Site

Plans to relocate Highlands College from St Saviour to St Helier have been branded “hopeless” by an architectural consultant, reigniting debate over the future of the education site.

Jane Faulkner, of Jane Faulkner Associates, argued there were no viable town-centre sites for a new campus and warned a rebuild could cost more than refurbishing the existing estate. She also described the proposal as “a complete disaster” environmentally, noting that new construction generates higher carbon emissions than renovation.

The idea of moving Highlands was raised in the government’s 25-year plan, which suggested redeveloping the St Saviour campus for housing and creating a new college in St Helier to stimulate the town’s economy.

Education Minister Deputy Rob Ward said a feasibility study would examine whether a new college should be on one site or spread across several. Highlands principal Jo Terry-Marchant stressed that only an evidence-based process could determine the best option, adding that “no architect standing outside one site and 11 buildings can present an evidenced-based argument” before the study is complete.

Ms Terry-Marchant has previously said the current estate is “outdated, inflexible and no longer fit for purpose in many areas,” with £3m currently being spent on maintenance. She argued any decision must consider skills demand, student needs, and long-term value for the island.

Students themselves are divided. Film and TV diploma students Sophia Alves and Ameerah Hughes, both 17, said they expected to leave Jersey after their studies due to wider career opportunities elsewhere, though they praised their teachers’ support despite leaky classrooms. Childhood Studies student Raquel Tiago, 27, said she planned to stay on the island, citing both financial sense and strong tutor support.

Deputy Ward said improved facilities could help keep skilled young people in Jersey. The feasibility study is expected to weigh costs, funding, demographics and education trends before a final decision is made.