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St Helier is the beating heart of Jersey – a place where people live, work, shop, and socialise. But like many urban centres, it faces challenges: congestion, limited green space, and streets that don’t always feel safe or welcoming. That’s why investing in St Helier’s public realm is more important than ever.
The St Helier Public Realm and Movement Strategy outlines a bold vision for transforming the town into a healthier, more inclusive, and vibrant place. It’s not just about beautifying streets – it’s about reimagining how we use them.
Healthier, Greener Travel
Encouraging walking and cycling is one of the simplest ways to improve public health and reduce carbon emissions. By redesigning streets to prioritise people over cars – with wider pavements, safe crossings, and dedicated cycle paths – St Helier can become a town where active travel is the norm.
This shift supports Jersey’s Carbon Neutral Roadmap, helping the Island move toward its net-zero 2050 goal. It also boosts mental wellbeing, as pleasant, green streets reduce stress and encourage social interaction.
Inclusive and Accessible Design
Improving St Helier means making it work for everyone. That includes children walking to school, older adults, and people with disabilities. Features like dropped kerbs, tactile paving, seating, and clear signage ensure safe and comfortable navigation.
Inclusive design isn’t just practical – it’s empowering. It gives people dignity and independence, allowing them to fully participate in public life. Streets that are welcoming and accessible foster a stronger sense of community and belonging.
Boosting Local Life and Economy
Vibrant public spaces support local businesses. Outdoor seating, markets, and cultural events bring life to the streets and increase footfall. People linger longer, spend more, and feel more connected to their town.
The Pedestrian Pound report shows that investing in walkable, attractive public spaces directly benefits the local economy. For St Helier, this means more opportunities for alfresco dining, pop-up events, and community gatherings – all of which contribute to a lively, resilient town centre.
Reflecting Identity and Pride
St Helier’s public spaces should tell the story of its people, culture, and heritage. Thoughtful design using local materials and planting can create a strong sense of place. When residents feel pride in their surroundings, they’re more likely to care for them and engage with their community.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The Future Jersey vision outlines ten outcomes for a thriving Island – from health and sustainability to economic resilience and community pride. Improving St Helier’s public realm directly supports these goals.
By investing in shared spaces, we’re not just improving how the town looks – we’re shaping how it feels. We’re creating a place where people of all ages and abilities can move freely, connect, and thrive.
St Helier has the potential to be a model for inclusive, sustainable urban living. With thoughtful investment and community support, its streets and spaces can become places of pride, wellbeing, and opportunity for all.
Public spaces play a vital role in delivering these outcomes by:
- Encouraging active, sustainable travel
- Promoting physical and mental wellbeing
- Strengthening local identity, pride, and sense of place
- Creating inclusive, accessible, and age-friendly environments
- Providing safe routes for children and families
- Supporting alfresco life, vibrant third spaces, and social interaction
- Boosting local culture, business vitality, and economic resilience
- Helping achieve climate and environmental goals
Read more about Future Jersey outcomes.