24 July 2018
The Infrastructure Minister has agreed to sell three States-owned fields overlooking St Catherine’s Bay to the National Trust. Deputy Kevin Lewis has signed a Ministerial Decision agreeing to sell the farmland bordering Pine Walk in St Martin to the Trust.
Deputy Lewis said: “We proposed to sell these fields as part of our land management programme. They are not needed for our core activities so we put them out to tender to generate the best possible income for islanders. I considered all the bids tabled, and the National Trust provided the best value for our community.”
In making its offer, the National Trust said it would protect the site and its character, manage the land for the benefit of the Island, maintain access to the area where possible, and carry out all the necessary tree surgery.
Deputy Lewis added: “I am very pleased to be able to sell the land to the National Trust, securing both the best financial outcome and the best community value for islanders. I know some have been concerned about the future of this beautiful spot, and I hope they can now rest assured that it will remain in good hands.
“The National Trust is in a unique position to be able to provide long term protection and public access to sensitive areas of our island.”
The fields have been leased by the States of Jersey to local farmers, most recently for the six-month period up to 30 June 2018. The rent generated an income of £2,000 per year.
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