13 October 2023
An exciting vision for revitalised, vibrant markets at the heart of St Helier has been laid out by the
Minister for Infrastructure, Deputy Tom Binet, at a meeting with traders.
The Minister has, today (13 October), published the Jersey Markets Revitalisation Project Update,
which sets the vision for the markets to be positioned as vibrant and inclusive – the social and
commercial hub of the town – as the centrepiece of the new and improved public realm.
The update outlines plans to achieve the vision, which include more events, increased al fresco
dining, and better signposting.
It also details steps already taken in 2023, which include the
creation of a new traders’ representative group, evening opening trials, and fresh branding.
A new website has been launched at www.jerseymarkets.je alongside social media channels on
Instagram and Facebook @JerseyMarketsOfficial.
The Project Update follows a report from independent consultants The Retail Group, produced last
year and also published today, which made a series of recommendations on how the Central
Market and Fish Market could be improved.
The Minister for Infrastructure, Deputy Tom Binet, said: “The markets should be the jewel in the
crown of St Helier and are long overdue for some attention. We’ve carefully considered the
recommendations of The Retail Group report and we’re now taking the next steps to make sure the
Jersey Markets have a bright and exciting future.
“I’ve spent time speaking to the tenants at length to understand their big issues and want to work
with them to create thriving markets at the centre of improved public realm. Islanders are
supportive of the markets and want to see them buzzing with activity, and we acknowledge that
the consumer experience needs to improve.
“I want to see the markets alive with events and retail entertainment. We’re already looking at
extended opening hours, perhaps a new performance area for live entertainment, ways in which we
can introduce more seating within the current layout, and how we can allocate space to business
start-ups.”
The Retail Group’s Jersey Markets Strategic Review suggested focussing on:
- Improving the external presence, appeal and visibility of the Jersey Markets.
- Securing the future of the Fish Market.
- Improving the customer experience.
- Improving the marketing and promotion.
- Improving the working relationships between traders, management and landlord.
- Making it easier for new entrants to trade.
- Developing a new leasing strategy focussed on proactive development of the Markets.
The Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Deputy Kirsten Morel, said:
“Our ambition is to create an attractive and dynamic retail sector, and The Retail Group’s report and
recommendations have been a useful foundation for setting the vision and direction for revitalising
this important part of town.
“Leading markets elsewhere are taking proactive steps to enhance their experience for consumers.
They offer more events, entertainment and pop-up businesses, but also promote them extensively
on social media, dedicated websites and through other marketing channels.
“Similar trading pressures have been experienced at markets across the UK and Europe, and we are
taking the experiences from elsewhere to improve our markets.”
The reports and vision were shared with tenants at a meeting at the Société Jersiaise yesterday
afternoon, and have been published this morning on www.gov.je/reports.
gov.je