Memorial Garden to Be Built at Explosion Site

Memorial Garden Planned to Honor Victims of Haut du Mont Explosion

Plans have been revealed for a memorial garden at the site of the tragic explosion that destroyed the Haut du Mont flats in St Helier, claiming ten lives in December 2022.

The memorial, to be located on Pier Road, is being developed with close input from bereaved families and former residents who lost their homes in the disaster. Their involvement has guided both the design and the features of the garden.

Barry Freeman, the Government of Jersey's Principal Architect, has been leading the project. He described the experience of working alongside the families as a profound and meaningful privilege.

“This has been one of the most heartfelt and important projects of my 33-year career,” he said. “Working so closely with those who lost loved ones and homes has been deeply moving.”

At the request of the families, the garden will incorporate personal and symbolic touches. These include favorite flowers of those who died, a dedicated children’s play area, and quiet spaces for reflection. A seating area will also be installed, inscribed with the names of those who lost their lives.

Karlene McGinness, whose mother Kathy died in the explosion, emphasized the importance of ensuring the garden reflects the warmth and spirit of the people it honors.

“Our mum’s home always had an incredibly welcoming and warm feel — it reflected who she was: loving, happy, and caring,” she said. “It means so much to have personal elements in the garden that reflect her personality.”

Karlene added that her mother adored spending time with her grandchildren, and the garden will become a cherished space for the family to gather and remember.

The land designated for the memorial is owned by the Government of Jersey. The remaining part of the site is under the ownership of housing provider Andium, which is currently refurbishing the remaining properties.