Thai Café Owner “Devastated” as Electrical Damage Keeps Gorey Pier Business Closed

The owner of a popular Thai café in Jersey says he is “devastated” after ongoing electrical problems forced the business to remain closed during the start of the busy summer season.

Tuk Tuk Thai, located on Gorey Pier, has been shut since February after water leaking through the roof damaged the property’s electrical distribution board.

Owner Theo Wansaram said he had hoped the building’s landlord, Ports of Jersey (PoJ), would resolve the issue before summer, a period when the café typically earns most of its yearly revenue.

PoJ said it was looking at temporary options to help the business reopen while longer-term repairs were considered.

Wansaram explained that the uncertainty surrounding repairs had left him deeply concerned about the future of the café.

“It’s a big worry for me,” he said. “I just want my electrics fixed.”

He added that the closure at the start of the peak tourist season could have a serious financial impact.

“We didn’t expect to find ourselves unable to trade entirely, especially during our busiest period,” he said. “We now stand to lose the majority of our annual income.”

Ports of Jersey said discussions with the tenant had been positive and that efforts were ongoing to find a practical solution.

Harbour Master Captain William Saddler said several safety issues had been identified at the site and talks would continue to ensure the business could operate safely.

“We’re pleased to have had a constructive meeting with the tenant,” he said. “We’ll continue working together to find a sustainable way forward that reflects everyone’s needs.”

Saddler also noted that the waterfront buildings presented maintenance challenges due to their exposure to damp and sea conditions.

According to Wansaram, PoJ suggested the damaged electrical board could be repaired and relocated, although he said this would not solve the underlying problem of the leaking roof, which could lead to further electrical damage in future.

He also claimed he had been informed that roof and electrical repairs could cost between £100,000 and £130,000, with little chance of the work being completed before summer. Ports of Jersey has been asked to respond to those claims.