Minister issues apology over lido tender process

Jersey’s Infrastructure Minister has apologised to States Members after flaws were identified in the tender process to operate the Havre des Pas seawater pool.

The lease process came under scrutiny in November following concerns about how First Point was selected as the preferred operator of the Lido from next year. An independent review was commissioned to examine the handling of the expressions of interest (EOI).

Lieutenant Bailiff Jurat Anthon Olsen found that while the initial stage of the process had been conducted fairly, he could not confirm that the second stage met the same standard.

In response, Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan told the States he accepted the findings and would restart the second phase of the tender. He confirmed that negotiations would be reopened with rival bidder Love our Lido, using Jersey Business as an independent intermediary.

In a statement, Constable Jehan said the errors identified were “genuine and not deliberate” and acknowledged the need to restore confidence in the process.

First Point declined to comment.

Speaking after the review was published, Mr Jehan said most of the procedure had been sound but accepted that two key issues needed to be addressed. “We are looking to put things right by returning to discussions and using an independent body to help resolve matters,” he said.

Deputy David Warr, a member of the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Panel and part of Love our Lido, said negotiations would now resume under the revised process. He said the group had until the end of January to reach an agreement.

Deputy Warr added that his priority was ensuring the Lido was used in a way that benefited the widest number of islanders. “Whether that’s physical fitness or mental wellbeing, I think that’s what people want from this facility,” he said.

He also said the revised tender should reflect a better understanding of the responsibilities involved when a charity is entrusted with a major public asset.