Storm Destroys Community-Funded Growing Tunnel

A Jersey-based charity has been left facing significant losses after violent winds tore through the island, destroying key equipment used for community projects.

Storm Goretti brought gusts of up to 95mph on Thursday night, causing widespread disruption. More than 300 properties were left without power, while dozens of fallen trees and debris blocked roads and footpaths across the island.

Among the damage was the complete destruction of a £12,000 growing tunnel belonging to Grow Jersey. The structure, which opened in July, played a central role in helping local residents learn how to grow organic food and was in use almost every day of the week.

The charity now faces the challenge of fundraising once again to replace the tunnel. Co-founder Sheena Brockie described the scene as heartbreaking when she arrived to find the structure flattened.

“It was quite devastating to see it completely tumbled,” she said. “In winds like that, a tunnel is always going to be vulnerable.”

While most of the site was secured ahead of the storm, Brockie said a small beehouse was also knocked over, though no further major damage was reported.

She added that future plans would need to take into account the increasing frequency of severe weather.

“We bought the best quality tunnel available, but maybe we need to look at additional protection such as windbreaks,” she said. “This is the climate emergency we’re living in. These kinds of storms are likely to keep happening, so we have to rethink how we move forward.”

Brockie stressed the importance of the tunnel to the local community, hosting school groups, volunteers and businesses throughout the year, particularly during the winter months when shelter is essential.

“We’re really desperate for help,” she said. “We need to rebuild, replace what’s been lost and come back stronger — even if that means higher costs.”