Town Skatepark Plan Proposes Transforming Reversing Bays

Plans to convert reversing bays in St Helier into a new skatepark have been given the green light by planning officials.

The proposed development at South Hill will feature movable skate equipment, acoustic fencing, CCTV, and facilities including an accessible toilet and baby changing area. Authorities confirmed the site is intended as a temporary solution, with the equipment set to be relocated to Fort Regent once its redevelopment is completed, currently scheduled for 2028. After that, the South Hill site would be repurposed into a cycle training area.

Supporters of the project say it will provide a much-needed central space for young people. Phil Minty, representing Skateboard Jersey, described the plans as a valuable opportunity despite being smaller in scale than the former North Quay skatepark, which closed in 2018. Constable Andy Jehan also backed the proposal, saying it would offer a dedicated and accessible location for sport and recreation.

However, not everyone is in favour. Some residents raised concerns about potential disruption, including noise and the impact on nearby wildlife. Questions were also raised about safety and the loss of the reversing bays previously used by learner drivers.

The planning committee approved the scheme by seven votes to one, with a condition that surrounding lights must be switched off at 21:00 rather than 22:00.

Further concerns were voiced during discussions. Deputy Andy Howell highlighted possible road safety issues, suggesting that the proposed exit route might not be used and that fencing could be bypassed. Constable Deidre Mezbourian also expressed reservations about losing the learner driver facility, noting that “kids will be kids” when it comes to climbing barriers.

The project forms part of the Government of Jersey’s wider skatepark initiative, with funding allocated between 2026 and 2029. A separate £1.9 million concrete skatepark was previously opened in Les Quennevais in 2023.