Developer Wanted for Historic Inn Redevelopment
- markdarrenwilkinso
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
Ports of Jersey Seeks Development Partner to Revive Historic La Folie Inn
Ports of Jersey has announced plans to find a development partner for the restoration and redevelopment of the historic La Folie Inn site in St Helier.
The 18th-century inn, which has been closed since 2004 and further damaged during Storm Ciarán, sits on a prominent 3,000 square metre plot overlooking the harbour. The site — including the listed former pub and adjacent land — will be redeveloped under the name Merchants’ Quay.
Ports of Jersey, which assumed ownership in 2015, confirmed that the formal procurement process will begin on Tuesday.
The redevelopment is a central part of the wider Harbour Master Plan, which highlights Merchants’ Quay as a priority area for regeneration. The vision includes transforming the site into a hotel that complements both the architectural heritage of La Folie and the historical significance of Jersey’s working harbour.
According to a market study commissioned by Ports of Jersey, the site could support a hotel development featuring between 125 and 150 guest rooms.
“We’re focused on bringing La Folie — and what we’re now calling the Merchants’ Quay site — back to life,” said Tom Wright, maritime programme manager. “This is about celebrating its role in Jersey’s harbour history while opening the space up for the future.”
Marc Clayson, head of Ports Real Estate, described the project as a “rare opportunity” to unite maritime heritage with modern hospitality. He stressed that any proposals would go through public planning processes, allowing the community to contribute their views.
The plans include the preservation and restoration of La Folie Inn as a listed structure, ensuring that its character remains central to the final development.
Tricia Warwick, CEO of Visit Jersey, welcomed the initiative, calling it a potential “standout destination” and a valuable addition to Jersey’s tourism landscape.
