Efforts Begin to Improve Safety at Seawater Pool

Authorities have begun essential work at Victoria Marine Lake in Jersey to make the historic seawater pool safer, following concerns about dangerous whirlpools and rip currents.

The Government of Jersey said its infrastructure teams are addressing safety risks caused by tidal variations flowing through gaps in the pool’s walls. The 128-year-old pool, located near St Helier’s waterfront, has been closed since 2023 due to these hazards.

Full repairs are scheduled for spring 2026, following a petition signed by more than 1,500 residents calling for the pool’s restoration.

Deputy Inna Gardiner has also proposed an additional £600,000 in the budget to carry out further safety improvements at the site.

In a statement shared on social media, the government’s infrastructure team explained: "Working in line with tidal patterns, we’ve taken the necessary time to address key concerns, particularly the risk of whirlpools and rip currents caused by tidal variations through existing openings in the wall."

The site remains clearly signposted to warn against swimming. Officials stressed that while progress is being made, “we cannot guarantee that further openings will not occur at this stage. Your safety remains our priority, and we appreciate your understanding as these works continue.”