'Pressing need' to upgrade Jersey's sewerage network, report says
- Published
A group of politicians are urging the government to "press on quickly" with sewage upgrades
There is a "pressing need" to upgrade Jersey's sewerage system to allow more homes to be built, a report has found.
The Environment, Housing, and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel found more than £50m was needed to increase the capacity of the ageing network.
It said building work was already being held up due to delays on the upgrade of the system.
Deputy Steve Luce, chair of the panel, said: "This issue cannot be left for the next government to solve."
The panel said it had "serious concerns" about investment in the system after reviewing the Jersey government's Bridging Liquid Waste Strategy (BLWS).
The strategy, released in May 2023, found the system could suffer "catastrophic failure" due to being outdated.
'Increase charges significantly'
It found the system was trying to cope with a far greater population than it was designed for, with new-build homes not able to go ahead without better infrastructure.
The panel found the BLWS would "increase charges significantly per household" - making them more expensive than similar-sized islands.
Mr Luce urged the government to carry out works as soon as possible.
"We are urging the government to push ahead quickly with the short-term liquid waste works that have been identified and can meet urgent needs," he said.
He added it was "imperative" for community consultation to take place to ensure the "right priorities" are being addressed.
"Notwithstanding the very long timescales for these drainage works, there is also the question of funding that needs to be resolved," he said.
"Both these issues must... be a top priority for the Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Treasury and Resources to address in the immediate future.
"This issue cannot be left for the next government to solve, as has been done in the past."
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- Published3 May 2023
