Farewell to the Fort: Demolition application goes in

Friday 25 August 2017

A Planning Application to demolish Fort Regent’s former cable car station and swimming pool is to be submitted shortly.

Government officials confirmed today that a number of the former tourist hub’s “redundant buildings and structures” are to be removed due to their “significant” health and safety risks, including the presence of carcinogenic asbestos.

The Department for Infrastructure will submit the application on behalf of the Department for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, which has responsibility for the site.

While projected costs are yet to be announced, it is expected that it could cost millions to successfully remove the dangerous structures.

The moves come after years of discussion within the States and concerns raised this year over children illegally entering the boarded up premises.

Connétable Steve Pallett, the Assistant Minister for Economic Development, described the work as “essential… as these structures are no longer safe and suffer from repeat episodes of trespassing.”

Pictured: Young trespassers at Fort Regent were caught on camera earlier this year, sparking widespread concerns.

“In the case of the cable car station and the aerial walkway we would expect this work to be completed relatively quickly and with minimum disruption. The pool complex is more complicated because of the known presence of asbestos in the building, which will need to be removed and disposed of by specialist contractors, prior to the building's eventual demolition. We anticipate that this project will take place in phases over a much longer period,” he said. 

The Minister for Infrastructure, Deputy Eddie Noel added: "Having responsibility for maintaining States of Jersey properties, DfI is pleased to be working on behalf of EDTSC to secure the removal of several structures that are no longer of use and pose significant hazards to public safety. The costs of maintaining and securing redundant structures such as the former Swimming Pool are significant and their timely removal will be in the best interests of the Island." 

Members of the States are to be briefed further about the demolition project next month, while those in neighbouring properties will also be informed about the plans.