New school among delayed infrastructure projects

Mr Jehan said there may not have been the capability to deliver the full list of capital projects

A new school and emergency services headquarters are on a list of projects that have been delayed by the Government of Jersey.

Infrastructure and Environment applied for an increased budget of about £150m to fund its portfolio but it was only granted an increase of 10% to £89m.

In a letter to a scrutiny panel, Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan detailed the list of projects that were due to start in 2025.

The list includes North of St Helier Primary School and a new Ambulance, Fire and Rescue Headquarters, which are now both delayed until 2027 and 2028 respectively.

'Being realistic'

Mr Jehan said: "What we are trying to do is to be realistic about what we can deliver in the time and budget... it's not a case of not doing things, it's about being realistic about what we can do.

"Infrastructure will spend £89m next year, so there is significant investment."

Mr Jehan said there may not have been the capability to deliver the full list of capital projects even if the budget was available.

“We are working very hard with the construction industry, with our partners in our arm's length organisations, to identify what work is coming online to make sure we have both financial and physical resources," he said.

'Big jigsaw'

The refurbishment of the Le Squez Youth Centre and the Army and Sea Cadets Headquarters were among the other delayed projects, which were put off until 2028 and 2026 respectively.

Mr Jehan said it was challenging to deliver capital projects.

"We are absolutely committed to providing a north of town youth centre, we have a sea cadets centre, we will not move those youngsters out until we have a new centre for them," he said.

"It's like a big jigsaw, we have to make sure we get it right, it's vital we provide facilities for young and old alike."

Mr Jehan said there was a danger in delaying projects too long as it could end up costing taxpayers more due to rising costs in the building sector.

"We have to be able to deliver, there is no point in us starting but not being able to finish a project, its also vital that we have enough revenue to maintain properties," he said.

The government also confirmed the States of Jersey Development Company would take responsibility for the future redevelopment of Fort Regent.

Mr Jehan said: "I hope that before Christmas we come out with some of those plans, they are going to be attractive for visitors and locals alike."