Boutique shops and casino among early suggestions for States sites
MEMBERS of the public have begun submitting ideas for the six St Peter Port sites the States have earmarked for potential regeneration.
Nightclubs, a camera obscura and museums are just a few of the ideas suggested for the building that holds the current Guernsey Information Centre, the North Plantation, two sites at La Vallette, the Round Top Stores and the Vivier Bunker.
On the www.seepotential.gov.gg forum, the tourist information office has gained several suggestions.
Jonathan Maides said it was a difficult building to utilise in an effective way.
‘I would like to think that the interior could be completely opened up to a two-storey arcade with small boutique shops,’ he said.
‘If a scheme could be created internally to exemplify the style similar to that of the Burlington Arcade, I suspect it could create a hub with interfacing external spaces.’
Rick Felbabel suggested the site could be used as a boutique casino.
‘Casino ideas have never managed to get off the ground due to concerns over problem gamblers, the due diligence required on any potential casino owners and location,’ he said.
‘This could solve all problems as it would be pitched as a high level boutique casino, aimed at high net worth individuals.
‘Ownership would be retained by the States, or controlled by an operating licence.’
In response, site user EricB said: ‘Any link between States and gambling is inherently wrong, despite the potential for profit.’
Through the forum the States hope to gain creative ideas with an aim to see progress on one or more of them before October 2019.
Guern-abroad said the Vivier Bunker area could be used for outside classes of meditation, yoga or tai chi.
‘I feel it is very important to keep the green area with plants, grass and trees for both our health and biodiversity, small spaces like this provide connectivity for wildlife and absorb rainfall and have a calming influence,’ they said.
The Round Top Stores have been suggested as a location to install a camera obscura, a building which uses lenses to depict a detailed 360 degree view of an area in real time.
‘There was one set up temporarily at Candie for an event a few years back and it was fascinating,’ said Liz Walton.
Doug Wilson added: ‘The camera obscura in Edinburgh is one of its busiest and best attractions.’
Other suggestions included an observation tower, gardens, outdoor cinema, art gallery, museum and a tunnel to Jersey.
Details on how to submit ideas can be found at www.gov.gg/seafront
