Confusion over who owned Charles Square has finally been resolved after contracts transferring the site to the Parish of St Helier were passed before the Royal Court last month.

The public space – outside businesses including CafeJac, Treat Me, The Stoodio and Downdog Café – has become a popular town meeting point, featuring seating, landscaping and a pétanque piste. But questions had lingered over ownership and responsibility for its future.

The issue was highlighted at a Town Team meeting last year, when St Helier Constable Simon Crowcroft described the square – created as part of an Andium development – as being “unloved and not owned by anyone”.

Meeting minutes show concerns about the site’s future use, with discussions taking place about how it could be better utilised and activated.

Those uncertainties have now been brought to an end. Contracts for the transfer of Charles Park, together with an adjoining area, were passed before the Royal Court in May 2026, formally transferring ownership to the Parish of St Helier.

Mr Crowcroft, who is stepping down as Constable of St Helier after 25 years in post, said the move would ensure the area is managed for the benefit of parishioners while providing opportunities to bring more activity into the town centre.

“This is about creating a place where people can meet, spend time, and enjoy the town, while also improving the surrounding pedestrian environment,” he said.

“Importantly, it gives the Parish the opportunity to support appropriate events and activities over time, helping to make this area more vibrant and welcoming for everyone.”

The Constable said parish ownership would secure the long-term maintenance and management of the space while complementing wider public realm improvements, including broader pavements on Providence Street, Charles Street and Ann Street.

The square forms part of the wider Cyril Le Marquand Court development and includes seating areas, landscaping and a living wall.

Last year’s Town Team discussions reflected a desire to see the area become a more active community space.

Members noted that artists from The Stoodio had already attempted to make use of the square and agreed that officers should investigate future opportunities for the site, while acknowledging that successful placemaking “takes time”.

Future possibilities could include community events and al fresco activities designed to bring more life to the area.

The land has been transferred to the parish at no cost, with legal fees met by the developer.