Health Minister Andrew Green will make a statement at the beginning of the afternoon States sitting, which is likely to be at 2.15 pm; but responding to repeated questions in the States this morning, Deputy Green confirmed that he wouldn’t be announcing a single site just yet, and there would now be a period of consultation.
Since the rumours about the People’s Park as the likely intended destination for the new hospital surfaced, there has been a significant backlash – partly because the site is one of the few open green areas in town, and partly because it is owned by the Parish of St Helier, not the States of Jersey.
St Helier Constable Simon Crowcroft has been adamant that he will not approve any deal over the park, and has tabled a proposition for debate that would remove People’s Park from the current shortlist of sites, thought to also include the Waterfront.
A public meeting is also being organised by campaigners who oppose any building on the People’s Park.