Uncertainty Over Future of Former Town Gas Site

Calls Renewed to Turn Former Gasworks Site into Green Space

A fresh debate has emerged over the future of the former gasworks site in St Helier, as Town Constable Simon Crowcroft urges the government to rethink its potential use.

Previously earmarked as a possible location for a new primary school, the prominent town-centre site is now being championed by Constable Crowcroft as a much-needed extension to Millennium Town Park. With St Helier's population continuing to grow due to increased apartment developments aimed at easing Jersey’s housing crisis, he argues that the land should serve all residents — not just schoolchildren.

“The Millennium Town Park is already at full capacity in the summer,” he said. “There are thousands of new residents who would benefit more from extra parkland than another large building project.”

Crowcroft highlighted the importance of public green spaces during times of crisis, pointing to the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 as a reminder of their essential role in residents’ wellbeing.

He has submitted a proposition asking the Education Minister to reassess whether a new school is still necessary in light of falling student numbers. “We need more data and better information,” he said. “If that comes through, I plan to return to the States next year and formally propose the park extension.”

With urban density on the rise, Crowcroft says it’s time for town planning to prioritise accessible green areas. “We need more trees, more open space — places where people of all ages can relax and recharge.”