Jersey's Infrastructure Minister promises repairs for crumbling Victoria Marine Lake

Jersey's Infrastructure Minister says the short term goal is to make sure the wall is safe, while paving the way for a 50-metre swimming pool in the future. Credit: ITV Channel

Jersey's Infrastructure Minister is promising to make improvements to the wall around a bathing pool in St Aubins Bay.

The Victoria Marine Lake has been a staple of the bay for over a century but has deteriorated to such an extent that the wall has started to cave in.

In January 2024, the Parish of St Helier could not prioritise funds to repair and operate the pool, despite acknowledging its heritage.

However, Connétable Andy Jehan says that repairs could take place in 2025.

He explains: "We looked at it early last year. The Connétable of St Helier and I were here with officers in October.

"We are going to try and make it safe. In the longer term, there are plans for a 50-metre pool with the Waterfront.

"In the short-term, we'll be looking to make it safe this year."

The last time the wall was given any maintenance was more than 10 years ago. Credit: ITV Channel

The Victoria Marine Lake was built in 1896 for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

The wall was made to hold water to create a lido, making it the biggest of its kind in the British Isles at the time.

In 2014, around £314,000 was spent to undertake maintenance work.

Jersey residents hope that repairs can help save the crumbling structure before further damage is caused.

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