Roadworks delay blamed on 'difficult conditions'

Roadworks in St Helier have been delayed by "difficult conditions under the surface", according to an assistant minister.

The work at New Cut started in January and was due to end in April but now would not be finished until the end of June, according to the government.

Businesses in the area said they were feeling the impact of the extended roadworks.

Simon Crowcroft, Constable of St Helier and Assistant Minister for Infrastructure, said his "heart goes out to the businesses in the area".

Allan Kittleson, of the men's clothes shop No3 New Street, said: "The caging they put outside is blocking the entrance quite a lot.

"People wouldn't even know we were here unless they turn the corner."

He adds retail was not doing well at the moment and that "this on top, it's made it worse, a hundred per cent".

Gill Hunt, director of estate agent Hunt Estates, said: "It is very dusty and very noisy, lots of cigarette butts and things like that.

"We're constantly washing the windows."

Crowcroft said: "For years now, people have been saying that town looks tired in the centre, that some of the pavements are uneven and dirty, and they've been dug up several times."

Getting the pavements "redone" had taken longer than expected.

He said: "It's unfortunate that the delay has been caused by difficult conditions found under the surface.

"My heart goes out to the businesses in the area. I've spoken to them, and government officials have had a long period of public consultation with the businesses. They are continuing to liaise with them."

Despite the challenges, Crowcroft said he remained optimistic about the long-term benefits after the success of a pavement project in Halkett Street.

He said: "By and large, businesses could see the pot of gold at the end.

"Once it was done, it really enhanced their urban environment. Anyone who's been down the newly repaved, refurbished market Halkett Street will be impressed by the quality of the work."

Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to [email protected].