Forward momentum in the proposal for a new primary school on the ex-Jersey Gas site
New Primary School Planned for Jersey's Former Gas Site
The States of Jersey have announced plans to create a new town primary school on the former Jersey Gas site, aiming to address the increasing need for school places and replace aging buildings with modern, fit-for-purpose facilities.
According to the Education Minister, the proposed school will be a two-form entry school, providing education for up to 420 children. This new school is expected to accommodate children from St Luke's and Springfield schools, which are slated for closure and replacement with the new school.
The government has allocated more than £12 million for the construction of the new school in the 2025-2029 Budget. If the Budget is approved, the site on Tunnell Street will be purchased for a nominal amount of £1. The States of Jersey intend to fast-track the land purchase from Andium Homes, with the sale amount for the Gas Place site potentially being paid off sooner if other funds become available.
Deputy Rob Ward emphasised that the level of need in schools is increasing, and the new site would offer a "purpose-built" place for children, including those "with the greatest need who are currently in La Passerelle primary school".
However, concerns have been raised about whether current primary schools can meet the demand for new school places. Constable Crowcroft has questioned the capacity of existing schools and has also requested an assessment of the "likely impact" of doubling the size of the Millenium Town Park.
In response, the Infrastructure Minister has agreed to buy the Gas Place site from Andium Homes, and the government will reduce the annual payments to Andium Homes by £1.5 million over 10 years to compensate for the sale.
The proposed school will not only provide modern facilities but also free up the Springfield School site, which may be used for a potential park in the future. Constable Simon Crowcroft lodged a proposition this year to assess the need for a new town school due to Jersey's changing demographics, including a falling birth rate. This new school project is a significant step towards addressing the growing need for education facilities in Jersey.
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