Community Split on Plans to Fund Leisure

Opinions are split over how to fund the £110m redevelopment of Jersey’s Fort Regent leisure centre.

The government plans to borrow £43m in its 2026–2029 budget to begin phase one, which includes roof repairs and asbestos removal. The remaining £67m would be set out in later budgets. While many islanders support redeveloping Fort Regent, they disagree on how the project should be paid for.

Plans from the Jersey Development Company include a 2,500-seat theatre, bowling alley, cinema, play areas, climbing facilities and new food and drink venues.

Deputy Philip Bailhache has criticised the scale of borrowing. He argues future generations would carry the cost, and has proposed a temporary 1% GST rise for five years to fund the project. “Without raising taxes Jersey cannot afford to spend £110m on Fort Regent,” he wrote.

Deputy Sam Mezec opposes a tax rise, saying it would hit those already struggling with living costs. He believes any tax changes should target higher earners instead of lower- and middle-income households.

Islanders interviewed in St Helier also offered mixed views.

Ian Barette called the project a “white elephant” and preferred private investment.

Another resident said she was willing to pay higher taxes if it benefited the community.

Others felt the government should fund the work from existing tax revenue.

Pensioner Clive said he could not afford extra tax but agreed the fort needed urgent attention.

Nick Halsall said both borrowing and tax rises have drawbacks during a cost-of-living crisis, adding that taxpayers will “pay for it either way”.

The States Assembly will debate the budget and proposed amendments from 9 December.