Playground to close for 3 years for housing build

A children's playground is set to close for about three years for the construction of 139 flats.

The Jersey Development Company said South Hill playground, next to the former States of Jersey planning offices site in St Helier, would close from Monday 7 September and reopen in summer 2029.

It said the closure would allow the Westward residential development to be built, which includes plans for 35 homes for first-time buyers through a shared equity scheme.

The company said although the playground would close, the "long-term result will be a significantly improved facility for the community" as it would replace the existing facilities with a larger, more modern and inclusive play area.

A barrier will be installed around the development and playground to "keep children, families and other members of the public safe" during the works.

"We recognise that the temporary closure will inconvenience families and apologise for the disruption," the Jersey Development Company added.

Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.