Partner sought to develop historic inn site

La Folie Inn has been closed since 2004

Ports of Jersey says it is seeking a development partner to restore an historic inn.

The prominent 18th Century La Folie Inn in St Helier has been closed since 2004 and later sustained damage from Storm Ciarán.

The site includes the listed former pub and surrounding land, and will be known as Merchants' Quay.

Ports of Jersey, which became landlord in 2015, said the procurement process for the site would start on Tuesday.

Bosses said the aim was to transform the 3,000 square metre site into a hotel development that respected the building's character and the harbour's history.

Ports of Jersey said it had conducted a market study that suggested the site could accommodate a hotel with between 125 and 150 guest rooms.

Tom Wright, maritime programme manager, said it was about "bringing La Folie - and what we're calling the Merchants' Quay Site – back to life" and highlighting its importance to Jersey's harbour story.

The new site will be known as Merchants' Quay

The project is part of a broader Harbour Master Plan, which identifies the Merchants' Quay Site as a key area for regeneration.

Marc Clayson, head of Ports Real Estate, described it as a "rare opportunity" to blend the site's history as a dockside hub with new hospitality offerings.

He added any formal proposals would undergo public planning, allowing islanders to have their say.

Ports of Jersey said La Folie Inn, a listed structure, would be preserved and restored as part of the development.

Tricia Warwick, CEO of Visit Jersey, said the plans could make La Folie a "standout destination" and a key part of the island's tourism.