Minister questions value of restoring sea pool

A £315,000 restoration project in 2014 failed to attract sustained public use

The future of Jersey's 128-year-old Victoria Marine Lake remains uncertain after a ministerial response to a public petition calling for its restoration and maintenance.

More than 1,400 signatures backed the petition, but Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan said the pool had not been fully operational for decades.

A £315,000 restoration project in 2014 failed to attract sustained public use, largely due to persistent sea lettuce in St Aubin's Bay.

The minister acknowledged the lake's historical significance but questioned whether there was enough public demand to justify the substantial investment required to restore and maintain it.

Instead, the government is focusing on other swimming facilities, including the Havre des Pas Lido and a proposed 50m outdoor pool on the Waterfront.

However Jehan confirmed short-term safety improvements were being considered, including lowering damaged sections of the lake wall.

He also welcomed interest from external parties willing to co-invest or lease the site.

A public meeting to discuss the lake's future will be held at the Old Magistrate's Court in the Town Hall on 5 September.