06 September 2023
A preferred contractor has been appointed for the first stage of the refurbishment of Jersey Opera
House.
Over the next ten weeks, Ashbe Construction Limited will prepare the Grade 2 listed building for the
full refurbishment, which is on target for completion by the end of 2024.
The pre-construction
enabling works will involve removing the internal fixtures and fittings and assessing precisely what will
be required during the main phase of the refurbishment.
In total £11.5 million has been allocated in the Government Plan over 2023 and 2024, and once
restored, Jersey Opera House will have improved accessibility and fire safety, protection for the iconic
dome, a redecorated auditorium, and an improved dance studio, ticket office and lighting.
The Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Deputy Kirsten Morel, said: “It
has taken a long time to get to this stage and, like many Islanders, I am relieved that we will see this
much-loved building being transformed into a modern facility, which will serve the Island and our arts
community.
“As is often the case with historic buildings, we do not know what Ashbe will uncover through their
enabling works – and I wouldn’t be surprised if they discovered issues which may require additional
time or resource to resolve, but we will be working with Ashbe and the Opera House Board to keep
our community updated on the progress of the work.”
gov.je