Minister defends double road closure

The Infrastructure Minister has defended the decision to close two major roads at the same time.

Work has already begun on St Peter's main road, with the project due to last until April 2026.

St John's main road will also be closed, with roadworks due to start on Monday 3 November and last more than a year, until February 2027.

The Infrastructure Minister, Constable Andy Jehan, said both closures were "vital" to enable work to strengthen the sewerage network, which will allow new homes to be built.

Jehan said Jersey had under-invested in its infrastructure for many years.

"To enable us to connect existing properties and new properties [to the sewerage network], we need to increase the capacity," he said

"It's a significant investment but one that's been long awaited."

But while the minister insisted the work was necessary, some business owners have said it has left them counting the costs.

Jess Labey, who runs Jess' Clothing Boutique, said the closure had reduced footfall to village shops.

"Some people have actually told me they stayed away because of it.

"I am very lucky to have an amazing loyal customer base and I work very hard at it, but it just means working even harder to build people's confidence that the diversions are straight forward, and encourage people to visit the village."

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