Calls to delay £2.3m sale of former government building in Jersey

A States member has urged ministers to pause the proposed sale of a former government property in Jersey, arguing the site could be put to better use for the local community.

Plans were announced on 18 March by Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan to sell Philip Le Feuvre House and Huguenot House in St Helier for £2.3m. The decision triggered a 15-working-day window during which members of the States Assembly can challenge the move.

The site, formerly used by Social Security, had initially been marketed to developers with a guide price of £3m for potential affordable housing projects.

However, Deputy David Warr has formally requested that the sale be deferred. He is calling on the minister to reconsider the agreement and explore alternative options for the site’s future.

In his proposal, Warr described the deal as a “significant property transaction” and criticised what he saw as a lack of scrutiny, suggesting it was being pushed through too quickly ahead of the pre-election period.

He acknowledged the drawbacks of further delay but said the vacant site could have been better assessed to meet the needs of the island’s capital. Warr argued the focus should not be solely on financial return, but on the broader social value the land could deliver.

Earlier plans had also included a nearby La Motte Street property, though that building has since been retained for use by Health and Care Jersey.

Minister Jehan approved the recommended bid of £2.315m, stating it represented strong value for money while carrying the lowest level of risk. Officials concluded it was the most favourable option overall.

Warr, however, said his proposal aims to open up debate about how the prominent town-centre site could best serve the community. He added that if a sale to a developer is ultimately deemed the right outcome, he would accept that conclusion - but only after fuller consideration.

The deputy also thanked Robert MacRae for allowing the proposition to be lodged, and said he hopes fellow members will back the call when it is debated on 14 July.