‘Don’t call time on the E&G, unless it’s to benefit Bridge’

The pub on South Side, the Bridge, could be used for retail, community use or housing, according to a new draft development framework, with its owner, the Liberation Group, actively investigating alternatives.

Demolishing the existing building would also be allowed if there was a compelling evidence that a new development would enhance the area.

People on The Bridge had mixed opinions on the potential development.

Business owner Ben Smith suggested that the site be used for more parking.

‘With more parking, more people might be encouraged to come to the Bridge or stay a bit longer when they are here,’ he said. ‘I don’t think we need more housing right on the Bridge, or offices. But if it’s good as a pub, keep it as a pub.’

Carl Haines also said the site could be used for something that would attract more people to the Bridge.

‘It should be something that would benefit the people and give more of them a reason to come.’

He suggested an open-plan restaurant or more retail that was ‘not just charity shops, even though they do a good thing’.

‘I also think Trident or a shipping company could have a good ferry terminal here.’

Michaela Moore thought it best to leave the E&G as a pub.

‘I think the Bridge needs more nightlife, I think it needs a bit more day-life as well, but the pubs do well,’ she said.

‘Shops might be successful as well, but the E&G is old and I think it should stay there.’

Liam Barley, 26, said he would like to see the pub go back to how it used to be.

‘I want it to have the skittles alley and the good kitchen.

‘There’s lots of food and coffee shops as well as charity shops, so I think this end of the island needs it to be a proper pub.

A spokesman for the Liberation Group said it was ‘looking at many different options with regards to the English & Guernsey’.

‘Over the past few months we have explored alternative uses for the E&G and will continue to work with the Planning Department to ensure we look at every possible use for this site.’

The Vale parish urged people to have their say on the development framework put out by planners. Senior constable Richard Leale said: ‘While this is in a neighbouring parish and not something we’d necessarily comment on directly, the proximity and prominence of the site on the Bridge means Vale parishioners may well have views on what the draft framework considers could be built there.

‘For that reason, we’re drawing attention to the Development & Planning Authority’s consultation process and the potential uses the site could be put to.’

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