Rising costs have prompted a rethink of Fort Regent’s redevelopment, with ministers expected to consider its future around the middle of 2027 as the government explores private investment.
Infrastructure Minister Jonathan Renouf revealed that work on the existing programme was paused after officials learned in June that estimated costs had increased enough to materially affect decisions about the project.
The original £110m estimate dated from two years earlier, before full feasibility and design work had concluded. No updated overall figure was provided.
Responding to questions from Deputy Alex Curtis, the Infrastructure Minister said inflation, design changes and safety requirements had increased costs, compounded by unforeseen risks including the impact of conflict in the Middle East.
Officials paused the programme to avoid spending money on work that the incoming Council of Ministers might subsequently abandon.
The election period also contributed “materially” to delays because the Regeneration Steering Group, which guides major regeneration projects, could not meet to consider options. Its first meeting after February took place on 17 September.
The government has now announced three parallel strands of work: establishing the cost of essential repairs, testing private-sector interest, and assessing options for the Fort’s future.
Tender information for the first phase is intended to be issued before the end of this year, with submissions assessed during 2027.
Essential works include roof refurbishment, asbestos removal and modernising utilities. Funding remains allocated in the proposed 2027 Budget, with the scope being revised to stay within existing limits.
An external specialist will also explore whether businesses are interested in investing in or operating all or part of the site under a long-term arrangement.
Options range from securing and stabilising the building to more extensive community and commercial regeneration.
Deputy Renouf said: “Fort Regent is an important public asset and there is a clear need to deal with the significant investment required after many years of under-investment in the building.”
He added that ministers must ensure further investment “is affordable and provides good value for Islanders”.
