The Guernsey Retail Group is encouraged by recent shop openings on the Bridge and the advancement with some of the larger planning developments as an indication of genuine progress in retail in the North of the Island.
A wine merchant and nail bar opened their doors last month and a popular gift and card shop has relocated to larger premises. The UK retailer, Home Bargains, now owns the old Quayside site on North Side and the States is to approve flood defences later this year for the Leale’s Yard project to move a step closer, so the Guernsey Retail Group (GRG) is optimistic for the future of the area.
Martin Search, director at the Guernsey Retail Group, said: “We are naturally excited by these openings, as entrepreneurs are clearly showing belief and determination in establishing new businesses and choosing to be on the Bridge.
“Alongside these, there is interest in several other units, Leale’s Yard hopefully coming on stream in 2026, Home Bargains being established and other developments. The States is also committed to working with the Guernsey Retail Group and the industry in developing a Retail Strategy for the whole Island.”
The recent openings include number 9 which is now Black Sabre, a fine wine merchant, Nail Art which has moved into Westerbrook on the South Side and Beekers, which has relocated, under new ownership, to number 15.
Martin added: “I have been working on the Bridge for many years and believe we are at a crucial point with momentum building. Whilst there is much still to be done, I am very optimistic that this area will see some meaningful changes the next decade.”
Picture Credit: Peter Frankland, Guernsey Press
