A new organisation offering training in traditional construction skills was launched at the Sustainable Construction Summit on 12th October.
The Jersey Building Preservation Trust (JBPT) will run four courses this autumn with more to follow in 2024. All courses will include visits to historic buildings in Jersey. The JBPT has partnered with Andium Homes, Jersey Heritage and the National Trust for Jersey to provide access to La Ronde Porte (National Trust for Jersey), the Hospital Block at Elizabeth Castle (Jersey Heritage), Sans Souci (Andium Homes) and 16 New Street (National Trust for Jersey). Classroom facilities will be provided by the National Trust at its headquarters at The Elms, St Mary.
Antony Gibb of the JBPT said: “The lack of traditional construction skills is not unique to Jersey, but the need to travel off island to learn is a problem the JBPT will help address. For construction professionals, the courses will offer both continuing professional development (CPD) and the opportunity to become accredited in historic building conservation. At present there are only two construction professionals in Jersey who are accredited by their respective institutes.”
Jon Carter, Chief Executive of Jersey Heritage commented: “At Jersey Heritage, we care for some of the Island’s most iconic historic buildings and are always in need of the traditional construction skills required to maintain and preserve them. Increasing the level of these specialised skills available in the Island and making it easier for people to access courses to learn them, is vital if we are to continue to protect and preserve Jersey’s unique historic environment.”
Charles Alluto, CEO National Trust for Jersey said: “The National Trust for Jersey is delighted to be able to support this important initiative by the Jersey Building Preservation Trust. Safeguarding traditional construction skills and having an increased awareness of conservation principles are absolutely crucial to successfully maintaining and caring for Jersey’s rich heritage estate. Indeed, if we are to successfully advocate and promote the benefits of conservation to historic building owners then it’s essential that they can easily access the necessary skills and crafts people to undertake such work.”
Daniel Le Crom, Senior Surveyor at Andium Homes added: “As Jersey’s largest Landlord and Developer, with a Capital Programme to deliver 3,000 new rental and first-time buyer homes by 2030, we are delighted to be working in partnership with the Jersey Building Presentation Trust, National Trust for Jersey, and Jersey Heritage to deliver these specialised construction courses.
“At Andium Homes, we recognise and value the need to maintain and restore historic buildings on the Island and believe these courses are a fantastic way to upskill local people whilst keeping traditional building methods alive.”
