Fort Regent hosts first event since closure

30 July 2019

​This weekend, Fort Regent will host its first major concert since the venue was forced to close to large events earlier this year.

The number of people using Fort Regent at any one time was capped at 1,170 in March after a fire risk assessment identified a number of safety concerns. Daily operations (such as the children’s play area and Active gym) continued, but large events had to move to alternative venues until emergency lighting work was completed.

Fort Regent re-opened for bookings for events up to 1,170 in May, and next weekend’s Jersey Symphony Orchestra summer concert will be the first major event.

The Assistant Minister for Infrastructure, Deputy Hugh Raymond, said: “I am delighted that we are able to welcome events back to Fort Regent, and proud of the hard work that Fort staff have undertaken to get us into this position. Although we have not yet made decisions over the Fort’s long-term future, it is excellent that the building can be enjoyed safely as an events hub in the short-term.”

As part of the extensive works, the building’s emergency lighting system and signage have been upgraded, and a new fire detection and alarm system is being installed. Work is also almost complete on the Fort’s changing rooms, which had to close last summer following concerns over legionella. The changing rooms are due to reopen this month.

The work means that islanders can continue to safely use the Fort in the short-term, and further work is underway to decide how Fort Regent will contribute to island life in the future.

Deputy Raymond said: “The Fort Regent Political Steering Group is continuing to look at options for the Fort in the medium- and long-term. I am hopeful that the building, which holds special significance and fond memories for many islanders, can continue to be used by the community for many years to come.”

The Jersey Symphony Orchestra’s Best of British concert will take place on Saturday, 3 August with a programme of light summer music, all by British composers.

Islanders can buy tickets online through eventbrite, or in person from the Fort Regent box office.