Memorial garden planned for explosion site

An artist's impression of how the garden could look

Plans have been unveiled for a memorial garden on the site of a flat explosion in which ten people died.

The residents lost their lives when Haut du Mont flats, a three-storey building in St Helier collapsed in December 2022.

The bereaved families, and those who lost their homes in the explosion have been closely involved in the design and features of the garden to be built on Pier Road.

The Government of Jersey's principal architect, Barry Freeman said it had been a "privilege" to work on the scheme with the loved ones of those who died.

'Heartfelt and important'

The Government of Jersey's Principal Architect, Barry Freeman, has been working on the project with the loved ones of those who died.

He said: "This is been one of the most heartfelt and important things I have worked on in my 33 year career.

"Working so closely with those who lost loved ones and those who lost their homes has been a privilege."

At the request of the families and former residents, the favourite flowers of those who died, and a separate play area for young children will be included.

The garden will feature an area where the names of those who died will be captured on seating, and separate quiet places where people can sit and reflect.

Barry Freeman said the park is one of the most important things he has worked on

Karlene McGinness, whose mother Kathy died following the explosion, said: "Our mum's home always had an incredibly welcoming and warm feel, which was reflective of the loving, happy and caring person that she was.

"So, it's important to us that the memorial site has personal elements which can reflect the kind of person that she was."

Karlene said her mum loved playing with her grandchildren and the garden will be a place the whole family will visit, and where they can share their memories.

The land on which the memorial and garden is due to be built is owned by the government, while the rest of the site is owned by Andium, who are currently refurbishing the remaining properties.