Waterfront Supremo Announced

26 May 2006

22 May 2006
Planning Department

NEWS RELEASE
Embargoed until 12.00 Tuesday 23 May 2006

Waterfront supremo announced

The internationally renowned architectural practice – Hopkins Architects headed by Sir Michael Hopkins – has been appointed by Senator Freddie Cohen, Minister for Planning and Environment, to advise and oversee all matters relating to design on St Helier’s Waterfront. Sir Michael’s team will review projects for individual buildings, public spaces, landscaping and other public realm schemes. The London based practice will advise on the merits of all buildings on the Waterfront whatever their height.


Hopkins Architects have been pioneers of British architecture since Sir Michael and Lady Patty Hopkins established the practice in 1976. They have a reputation for creating buildings that combine innovation and popular public appeal, often in a sensitive setting. They have become one of the UK’s leading architectural firms and consistently win major international awards, most notably the Royal Institute of British Architects' Royal Gold Medal. This year, Sir Michael has been voted by his peers as one of the world’s top five most admired architects in the 100 Survey published in the ‘Architects’ Journal’.


The firm’s role will be to drive the delivery of world-class architecture on the Waterfront and ensure that all new development matches the aspirations of the recently approved Supplementary Planning Guidance. Plans will only be progressed by the Minister and the Planning Department if they have the support of Hopkins Architects. Most of the firm’s costs will be met by Waterfront developers, ensuring quality is driven by those seeking consent to carry out new development.


Senator Cohen said: “I’ve always maintained that it needs a world class architect to dramatically improve the look, feel and reputation of St Helier’s Waterfront. Our recent public consultation highlighted that people are crying out for improved design and quality on the Waterfront,''


“This is an exciting and positive step forward and I am very much looking forward to working with Sir Michael Hopkins and his team”.


Director of Hopkins Architects Jim Greaves said: “Hopkins are delighted to be given the opportunity to be involved in bringing forward a cohesive approach to the development of the Waterfront. Its location on the edge of St Helier’s historic town and its proximity to Elizabeth Castle, requires very sensitive handling to ensure overall success. We are looking forward to working on this unique project”


For more information, please contact:
Minister for Planning and Environment,Senator Freddie Cohen: 07797 714 550