Could al-fresco dining and more festivals make St Helier vibrant again?

Friday, 17 July 2026 10:00

The Constable of St Helier, Inna Gardiner, says she and new Economic Development Minister, Gerald Voisin, are in talks about how to improve the island's capital for locals and visitors.

Citing the success of events like the International Blues Festival - which saw thousands of people pack the Royal Square for two days in May, Constable Gardiner says efforts are focused on getting people into town.

She told Channel 103 she is having 'really good' conversations with Deputy Voisin, who also has vast experience in retail.

Concerns have been raised about the number of empty shops on the high street.

The recent redevelopment of the former Queensway House on Queen Street has seen seven rainbow-painted units ready to let. Now 'Queens Gate', agent Sarre & Co describes it as a unique opportunity for businesses seeking a vibrant and bustling location. its website says it is part under-offer with limited space remaining.

Further along the high street, the old Sure shop, the former Paperchase, and 40 King Street, which used to be Topshop are also vacant.

Speaking to us about her vision for the town, Constable Gardiner said:

"Do we need more shops? Or do we need more varied types of businesses? What makes a high street lively is not just the row of shops.

"We need to think about what is required to bring this vibrancy, and this is why we need the business people sitting around the table with us.

"We must work together with businesses, government, and the Parish.

"It's about events, but not one-off events. If people come into town because there is something always happening in town, they will then go into the shops."

Constable Gardiner continued:

"We need more al fresco areas, and we will look at al-fresco policy to ensure it will be easier for businesses to have al-fresco areas.

"... (and) there's busking, do we need more music on the streets? We will look at that.

"Different communities have spoken with me, and we are thinking about how we can create an International Food Festival.

"We have so many communities living in St Helier, and they would love to share their traditions, their food, their music."