“Come and debate Peoples’ Park hospital plans” – campaigner challenges ministers

Wednesday 13 January 2016

Ministers have been challenged to a public debate on building the new hospital on Peoples’ Park as the backlash against the apparent number one choice continues to grow.

Christian May says that if Health Minister Andrew Green wants to take away one of the few open spaces left in St Helier, he should be prepared to make his case to the public in a podium debate.

In the last weeks it has become clearer that the Health department are leaning towards the park as the site for the new hospital, which could cost anything up to £400 million.

But there is one major sticking point – the park belongs to the Parish of St Helier, not the States, and the town Constable says that he’s not willing to give it up. The Chief Minister has suggested a land swap or a compulsory purchase proposal, but Simon Crowcroft says that his parishioners will decide on any deal in a referendum.

Mr May – who stood unsuccessfully in the St Helier No 3 election in 2014 – said that it was time for the ministers to start a dialogue about the options.

He said: “The language being used by the Council of Ministers seems to indicate that a decision on the location of the Hospital has already been made, and the delay in announcing is a result of the assembly of a package of promises and concessions that will make the loss of People’s Park more palatable.

“As the Constable of St. Helier has said, I cannot see a package of land or facilities being offered that will compensate for the loss of such an important public space.

“Our greatest concern has been the lack of communication. I do agree with the Health Minister, the decision in relation to the Hospital location and construction is one of the most important this Island will take; surely that calls for greater public consultation and dialogue, not less?

“I would challenge the Health Minster to join me and representatives of other interested groups in a public, podium debate over the location of the Hospital. Whilst no final decision has been made, there is a short list.

“Let us talk about the impact each will have on residents and Islanders alike. Let us talk about the benefits and the costs, not only in monetary terms but to the community and to public morale. People’s Park, and the people of Jersey, deserve that respect.”