Bathing Pool Debate: Minister to Attend Public Forum

Minister to Attend Public Meeting on Future of Historic Marine Lake

Jersey’s Infrastructure Minister is expected to attend a public meeting in September to gather public opinion on the potential restoration of the 128-year-old marine lake bathing pool in St Helier.

The meeting, scheduled for 5 September at the magistrates’ court, has been organised by Deputy Inna Gardiner, who represents St Helier North. It aims to provide clarity on the projected costs, maintenance implications, and timelines involved in any future repair work to the sea pool.

Originally constructed in 1897, the bathing pool is among the largest of its kind in the British Isles. However, it has been out of use since 2023, primarily due to the sluice gates being left open. The Infrastructure Minister recently indicated that demand for the facility may no longer justify restoration efforts, describing it as having a "diminishing requirement."

Parish of St John Constable Andy Jehan, speaking previously in the States Assembly, acknowledged that initial cost estimates from contractors suggested repairs would be financially unviable. He cited limited historical use of the facility—particularly during a parish lease—due to the presence of sea lettuce, as a contributing factor in the assessment.

Despite this, the issue has garnered public support. A petition calling for the restoration of the marine lake has attracted over 1,300 signatures, prompting a formal ministerial response.

Supporters of the campaign to save the pool argue that it holds significant cultural and historical value for Jersey, with concerns raised about the lack of maintenance and transparency around the decision-making process.

The upcoming meeting is expected to serve as an opportunity for the government to present the latest information on the lake’s condition, while offering residents a platform to express their views on its future.