Gas Place: A Turning Point for St Helier’s Future
Nature thrives on cycles - carbon, nitrogen, water. And in politics, we too seem bound to cycles of debate. One such recurring debate is what we do with Gas Place. A question many thought settled, yet here we are again, facing Proposition P45/2025 from the Constable of St Helier, seeking to delay the long-planned school development.
It’s time to break the cycle, and deliver on promises made.
From Contamination to Community: The Park’s Origins
The story of Millennium Town Park began in 1997 with Proposition P.190/97, calling for a public green space on the old gasworks site. Once a car park and heavily contaminated, the land needed serious remediation. But the public rallied - over 16,400 handwritten signatures were collected in support.
Deputy Geoff Southern, founder of Reform Jersey, championed the cause. Thanks to his efforts and a rogue folder vote, the park became a reality. It stands today as a testament to community action and political will.
What’s Planned for the Remaining Gas Place Site?
In 2017, Andium Homes received permission to build 122 apartments on the remaining land. The Constable of St Helier supported this plan. But archaeological discoveries halted the project, making residential development unviable.
In March 2022, the States Assembly unanimously approved the Bridging Island Plan, designating the site for educational use. My amendments ensured this change was reflected in two subsequent Government Plans. The vision: a town primary school, a rooftop sports pitch for community use, and, crucially, green space extensions.
This isn’t just about one site. The old Springfield School will become a park. La Bas Centre will also be transformed. These are joined-up plans that balance education, green space, and community needs.
A Mandate from the People
In the last election, Reform Jersey stood on a manifesto that included this project. We spoke to residents across Central and South St Helier - every doorstep, every conversation. We won every seat we contested in these areas. The message was clear: the people support this vision.
In December 2022, Deputy Tom Coles proposed using the Play.com site for the school, allowing further park expansion. It was narrowly defeated, by just three votes. All Reform Jersey Deputies supported it. That was the last viable alternative. Now, Gas Place must deliver.
Why This School Matters
Let’s address the arguments against the school.
Some claim falling birth rates mean we don’t need new facilities. But this isn’t about increasing capacity, it’s about replacing inadequate schools. Springfield, St Luke’s, and La Passerelle are outdated. La Passerelle operates from refurbished portacabins, serving children with significant needs. They deserve better.
The new school will include a purpose-built annexe, designed for those needs. As Education Minister, I see this as a moral and civic priority.
I’ve invited the Constable to visit these schools. Perhaps the Millennium Park Group should join him. Let them see the cramped classrooms, the heat in summer, the rain damage. Let them understand why delay is not an option.
The Cost of Delay
Opponents cite a £50 million figure for the school. It’s simply not accurate. Government plans have already allocated funds for development and construction. Meanwhile, no one has costed the proposed park extension.
We support green space. That’s why my amendment included transforming Springfield into a park- accessible, especially for elderly residents nearby. It’s a win for everyone.
A Choice for St Helier
We face a choice: thoughtful, integrated planning that meets educational, environmental, and community needs—or fragmented ideas that ignore the realities of our town.
Reform Jersey has consistently supported joined-up thinking. We’ve driven the St Helier Youth Facility forward. I’ve attended Millennium Park group meetings and offered advice: embrace the school, shape the park extensions, and help us make the most of these opportunities.
Let’s Move Forward Together
We were elected to represent St Helier. We spoke about this project. We listened. And now, it’s time to deliver.
I will oppose P45. I invite the Millennium Town Park group to engage with us, visit the schools, and understand the urgency. Let’s work together to build a better future - for our children, our community, and our town.