Government of Jersey launches heritage strategy

The strategy uses a broad definition of heritage that includes the natural as well as cultural environment

A plan to encourage islanders to engage with Jersey's history and heritage has been released.

Deputy Kristen Morel, responsible for heritage, said the strategy was "so important" because 1% of all annual government spending now goes towards arts, heritage and culture.

He said the strategy would provide a "roadmap" for this funding.

The plan was created by a new Heritage Advisory Board made up of the island's largest heritage organisations.

Deputy Morel added that the strategy "sets longer-term measurable goals and shorter-term programmes" to promote Jersey's heritage, as well as providing a current review of the sector.

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The strategy outlined that the government has legal and policy responsibilities to protect the island's heritage.

It also estimated the sector contributes at least £61m to Jersey's economy and said digital engagement with heritage increased by 25% in 2020.

The strategy's long-term vision has adopted the Heritage Cycle model that encourages people to understand, value, care for and enjoy their historic surroundings, a model used in England for over a decade.

The Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Senator Lyndon Farnham, said: "The publication of the Heritage Strategy is the culmination of a great deal of work by people from across several organisations.

"We should all celebrate their role in ensuring that Jersey's heritage remains a core part of island life both now and in the future."

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