Harsh Weather Conditions Strain Construction Sector

Jersey’s construction sector is facing mounting pressures after the island recorded its wettest February on record, with industry leaders warning that poor weather has compounded an արդեն difficult economic climate.

Mike Osborne, who chairs the Chamber of Commerce’s Building, Housing and Environment Committee, said persistent rain and winter storms had disrupted work on sites. However, he stressed that the more pressing issue remains a lack of available projects across the industry.

According to Jersey Met, the island saw 180mm (7 inches) of rainfall last month- around twice the seasonal average - creating challenging conditions for builders already dealing with rising costs.

Osborne explained that storm damage has driven up insurance premiums, while additional labour is often required both to prepare for severe weather and to carry out clean-up operations afterward. At the same time, global factors, including ongoing tensions in the Middle East, have contributed to higher fuel and import costs, further squeezing the sector.

He warned that without a steady pipeline of work, companies are finding it difficult to maintain efficiency or plan ahead.

To help ease the strain, Osborne urged the government to reform the planning system, saying improvements could reduce costs throughout the lifecycle of construction projects, from initial design through to completion.

He also pointed to potential support from initiatives such as the Investment in Jersey Fund and the Island Construction and Engineering Programme, expressing hope they could provide a much-needed boost.

The government has been approached for a response.