Rue du Scez in St Martin has been named the winner of the 2026 Scenic Lane Competition, an annual initiative celebrating Jersey’s rural lanes and the role they play in supporting biodiversity and the island’s landscape.
Organised by the Société Jersiaise and supported by the Rotary Club de la Manche, National Trust for Jersey, Jersey Biodiversity Centre and the Government of Jersey’s Environment Department, the competition recognises lanes that combine visual appeal with environmentally sensitive management.
Originally established to assess branchage standards, the competition has evolved in recent years to place greater emphasis on biodiversity, sustainable maintenance practices and the overall character of Jersey’s countryside.
Judges now consider a range of factors, including the quality of hedgerows and banks, the diversity of plant and animal life, the presence of native species and the avoidance of chemical herbicides and pesticides where possible.
This year’s judging took place following a period of rainfall, which organisers said provided particularly favourable conditions for assessing plant growth and wildlife activity.
Rue du Scez received consistently high scores from the judging panel, which highlighted its mature hedging, stone walls, well-maintained grassy banks and variety of wildlife. Butterflies recorded along the lane included small blues, red admirals and painted ladies, while plant species included cyclamen, dog rose, honeysuckle and elderflower.
The judges said the lane’s sea views helped set it apart from the other entries.
Rebecca Bailhache, Chief Executive of the Société Jersiaise, said: “This competition reflects the heart of the Société Jersiaise’s mission, to understand, protect and celebrate Jersey’s natural and historic environment. Rue du Scez is a wonderful example of how careful maintenance, respect for biodiversity and appreciation of our landscape can support the protection of our beautiful lanes for our Island community to enjoy.”
Pictured: The judging panel – Left to right – Nicolette Westwood from Société Jersiaise, Nick Baker from Rotary Club de la Manche, Edward Dumond from National Trust for Jersey, Gregory Guida Société Jersiaise President, Anne Haden from SJ Botany Section and Jersey Biodiversity Centre.
