Proposal for Gas Works Skatepark, Climbing Wall, and Pump Track Rejected

Gas Works Site to Remain Unused for Now as Temporary Youth Space Rejected

Plans to turn the former Gas Works site in St Helier into a temporary recreational area for teenagers have been rejected by States members.

Deputy David Warr had proposed using the brownfield site as a ‘meantime’ space — potentially featuring amenities like a skatepark, climbing wall, or pump track — while the government continues to develop long-term plans to build a new primary school on the land.

However, only six States members supported the idea, with 30 voting against it.

Deputy Warr criticised the decision, calling the unused site a wasted opportunity.

"If we have fitter and healthier kids, that’s a more productive workforce,” he argued. “That saves millions for the Treasury. Everyone wins.”

Deputy Philip Ozouf questioned whether the promised school would materialize at all, citing concerns about funding and delays:

"Is the school on Gas Site going to happen? If so, where’s the money?If it isn’t going to happen in the next three or four years, then the 'meanwhile use' is really important.What a mess, what an embarrassment."

Education Minister Rob Ward, however, remained firm on prioritising the school project. He said the government is close to securing the land and hopes to begin construction by early 2026.

"Not every site, and not every moment, is appropriate for meantime use,” he said. “We have to be realistic. Who’s funding the project? Who’s running it? What about health and safety?"

Minister Ward also pointed to the upcoming election as a risk factor, stressing the need to secure land and planning permission before then:

"Otherwise, it will become like the new hospital project — delayed and delayed."

For now, the Gas Works site will remain as it is, with no temporary facilities planned for young people.