Plans submitted for “place to remember” for child abuse survivors

Monday 22 January 2024

A “garden of reflection” for those who suffered abuse in Jersey’s care system will be created at La Collette Gardens, if Planning gives the project the green light.

The creation of a ‘Care Memorial’ was put forward by a panel of survivors in 2018, one year after the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry uncovered decades of historic abuse in the island.

Originally, a structure was due to be created at the Weighbridge, but the idea was scrapped after concerns were raised over cost, and the potential for the site to retraumatise victims.

La Collette Gardens was subsequently selected as a site for an alternative memorial.

Video: The original plans for a care memorial.

The Grade 2 Listed seaside gardens, which were created in the early 20th century, offer panoramic views across Havre des Pas, and as far as Greve d’Azette and La Mare in St Clement.

Plans went in last week to alter the space with a new path, pergolas, a fountain, and an arbour seat to provide “somewhere where islanders can come and reflect in a quiet, safe and relaxing environment”.

Documents submitted as part of the application said that the seating would be themed around butterflies – which were chosen as an emblem to represent child abuse survivors – and angled towards the “mid-winter sunrise”.

The application said the pergolas would be covered in “scented roses, jasmines and other fragrant plants”, and that “new vegetation comprising flowers and shrubs will be planted”, again themed around butterflies. 

Pictured: La Collette Gardens are situated under Mount Bingham.

The “reflection pond” will be positioned so that “the first rays of sunlight” each morning hit it, which will aim to promote “a sense of hope and brightness, and a reminder that each day is a fresh start”.

Plans for the site, which will be known as “A Place to Remember”, can be viewed here.