Locally owned retailer and builders merchant Romerils, are planning to regenerate their retail stores, head office and car parks, into a scheme that will also deliver 94 units of accommodation.
The site in Dumaresq and Hue Street is presently occupied by roughly 50% of surface level parking.
The other half comprises of nine old, inefficient buildings in which the company presently operates with 26,000 square feet of retail, storage and their head office.
Mark Syvret, the Romerils Chairman, said: “For many years now, Romerils have been developing plans to contribute to the regeneration of what is a tired part of St Helier. We believe the time is now right to proceed with these plans. This project will not only enable us to provide an improved retail experience for our customers but also enhance this area of St Helier with an improved public space and much needed accommodation.”
The scheme, being developed by local architects, Axis Mason, will comprise of:
- 3000 square metres of retail space
- 94 units of accommodation in apartments
- Underground parking
- Romerils head office
- Creation of public realm space
In keeping with the tradition of Romerils local origins and values, and the Island’s desire to embrace heritage in local buildings, the company have decided to deal with the challenges of retaining the original frontage of their current building.
Commenting on the key elements of the scheme, Mr Syvret added: “This regeneration and investment into our retail business, and in St Helier, is a clear message of our intention and belief that there is a future in our type of retail. We will continue to invest in our great team of people too, as well as delivering to them better showrooms and working environments”.
In regard to the residential development, Mr Syvret continued: “In delivering 94 units of accommodation, present regulations dictate we need to be providing at least 15% of these to affordable housing. While it is too early to say exactly how many we can make available under the affordable housing scheme, I can say we will be exceeding this requirement, and as many as the financial viability allows us to”.
The public are invited to view and discuss the plans with representatives from Romerils and their architect design team at two open public consultation meetings in the Town Hall on Wednesday 2nd November from 12.30pm to 7pm and on Thursday, 3rd November, from 10am to 4pm.
Pictured: View towards Dumaresq/Hue Street Corner North
