Neighbours want £300,000 compensation after St. Aubin fire

Monday 13 August 2018

Three businesses in St. Aubin which suffered as a result of a fire they claim was deliberately started by a neighbour, are suing the dead man’s estate for compensation.

On 7 December 2015, a fire completely destroyed Gallichan Marine Limited on the Bulwarks. Both the Police and Fire Service carried out investigations.

The Fire Service concluded it had been started deliberately and the police arrested the owner, Bob Gallichan for arson. He always denied the charge. However, CCTV footage showed his car outside the premises three minutes before the fire started, and leaving shortly afterwards. A witness also claimed to have seen him in the area. Mr Gallichan later committed suicide. Police closed the case and no one else was ever charged.

Gallichan Marine was one of a number of tenants of a complex called the Assembly Rooms owned by Harbour Front Limited, which also included DL’s Café and Deli. Adjourning the property is Jackson Marine Services. Harbour Front Limited, DL’s Café and Deli, and Jackson Marine Services are all seeking compensation. The fire was so severe parts of Gallichan Marine had to be demolished. The claimants say they suffered material damage, loss of stock, and loss of business. Harbour Front Limited is claiming almost £270,000, DL’s Café and Deli almost £17,000, and Jackson Marine Services almost £10,000 – a grand total of almost £300,000.

Pictured: It's claimed the fire at Gallichan Marine caused extensive damage to neighbouring properties.

Documents filed with the Royal Court show that the various defendants give a number of reasons why they believe the case should be struck out. These include Mr Gallichan telling them he didn’t start the fire, that more than a year has passed, and that the law under which the compensation is being sought doesn’t apply in Jersey. 

The case continues.