Work has officially begun on a modern, purpose‑built Youth Centre on the former Ann Street Brewery site, marking a major milestone in the creation of a new landmark for young people in the heart of St Helier.
Designed with the direct input of local young people, the five‑storey centre will become a vibrant hub for activity, creativity, wellbeing, and support. Once complete, it will offer some of the most innovative youth facilities the Island has ever seen, including:
- Rooftop kick pitch
- Large climbing wall
- Dance studio
- Sports hall
- Boxing gym
- Health & Beauty room
- Sensory room
The Youth Enquiry Service (YES) will move into its new standalone building on the site in January 2027, with the full Youth Centre scheduled to open in summer 2028.
Associate Director of Children and Young People, Mark Capern, said: “The voices of young people have already helped get us to where we are today and we’re not done yet. The next step is to recruit Youth Ambassadors who will join us in shaping the next phase of the design. This new centre is being shaped around what they have asked for, ensuring it becomes a space where all young people can feel welcome, supported, and inspired.”
Community input has played a central role to date, and young people will continue to lead key aspects of the interior design through the new Youth Ambassador programme, working closely with School Councils across the area.
Minister for Children and Families, Connétable Richard Vibert (pictured), added: “We are listening to children and young people, who have told us clearly that having more places to play, more free clubs and activities, and more options for older children really matters to them. Their comments and feedback are important, valued and taken seriously.
“More than 1,600 children and young people live within walking distance of the new centre, and with 71% of St Helier residents living in flats, this facility will offer safe indoor and outdoor space to play, connect, grow, and feel supported. This project reflects the Government’s wider commitment to revitalising St Helier by creating safer, more vibrant spaces and improving access to opportunities for children and young people.”
Over the past two years, work has been undertaken between the Youth Service, Jersey Property Holdings, Axis Mason, and Dandara on the design of the building, relevant planning application paperwork submitted, and contracts agreed. Dandara are the main developer who started on site in January 2026 and works are progressing well.
Alex McEwan, Managing Director of Dandara Jersey, said: “This is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and inspiring projects we have undertaken. We’re pleased to commence construction on this heritage site, which has played such an important role in Jersey’s history over the past 150 years. It is a real privilege to deliver a Youth Centre shaped by the vision and input of the young people who will be using it.”
