Post-security departure lounge among ‘interim’ Elizabeth Terminal upgrades

Ports of Jersey is carrying out a reconfiguration of the Elizabeth Terminal to provide a more “pleasant” experience for departing passengers – with the current facilities “no longer adequate” for the increasing numbers of foot passengers using the ageing building.

The project, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of May, will see the creation of a departure lounge for passengers after they have cleared security, with The Shipyard restaurant providing refreshments, a children’s play area and facilities for passengers with disabilities.

Passengers will also have access to more seating, and new fences are being constructed outside The Shipyard to enable the al fresco area to be used after security.

Ports has said that the refurbishment “will significantly improve passengers’ experience in the interim”, ahead of the approved redevelopment of Elizabeth Harbour that includes plans for a new terminal and expanded freight capacity.

In a statement, it described the current terminal – designed in the 1970s and built in the 1980s – as “no longer adequate for the increasing numbers of foot passengers now travelling to and from Jersey on high-speed ferries”.

“At peak times the departures area becomes crowded, with inadequate facilities for people with disabilities after security,” the statement continued.

“Passengers will see temporary fencing inside the terminal building while the construction work is underway, during which time there will be less space for departing foot passengers, however Café Ube’s Grab and Go will remain open throughout the refurbishment.”

Port operations and security manager Robin Fitzgerald added: “We know the current facilities for foot passengers are not always comfortable during peak times, and we want to provide a departure lounge where our customers can sit down, relax and access refreshments before their ferry departs.

“This modification of the terminal will extend the area after security and create a pleasant waiting area where travellers can enjoy the amenities before boarding their ferries.”