Flat explosion site plans set to be submitted

Ten people were killed in an explosion at a St Helier block of flats

A planning application for a site where an explosion in a block of flats led to the death of 10 people is set to be submitted next year, a minister has said.

In a written question to Housing Minister Sam Mezec, St Helier South Deputy David Warr asked if any progress had been made regarding the future of the Haut du Mont residential block site on Pier Road in St Helier.

Ten people were killed in the explosion which happened at about 04:00 GMT on 10 December 2022.

Mezec replied work was progressing towards the "finalisation of plans" which were due to be submitted early next year.

Warr's question also asked how much engagement had taken place with bereaved families and displaced residents regarding the site's future.

In response, Mezec said: "Engagement has taken place with bereaved families and displaced residents, all of whom have been kept updated throughout and have contributed their thoughts and opinions to the ongoing process."

In October, States of Jersey Police and the Health and Safety Inspectorate said initial case files of evidence, documents and expert opinions had been given to the Law Officers Department so charges could be considered over the explosion.

Three men arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter were interviewed and released on bail in August 2023..

They have not been not charged and in April Jersey's police chief said no more arrests were expected.