It is understood the plans are still in the very early stages. But an artist’s impressions of some of the ideas have been shared in London by a local architecture firm DLM.
Guernsey Ports managing director Ross Coppolo confirmed that work had been going on behind the scenes.
‘The premises are currently home to a variety of important harbour functions and valued tenants, not least the popular Pier 17 restaurant, but the buildings are ageing and in need of investment to bring them up to modern standards,’ he said.
‘Guernsey Ports has been approached by the current tenant at Pier 17 with proposals to improve the overall site, which maximises the space available, promotes the excellent sea views and offers modern facilities, which meet the latest requirements of all users of the area.’
Pier 17 opened on the end of the Albert Pier in 2009. It is well-known for its seafood and enjoys views across the harbour. It is listed as the sixth-best restaurant in St Peter Port on Tripadvisor.
Restaurant owner Seamus Duggan said he could not say much at this stage.
‘We are exploring some exciting ideas, but it is at a very early stage,’ he said.
‘I hope to share more in the future.’
Developer Infinity has been working with the parties as well. The firm is well known for housing, but has also undertaken commercial developments like 19 at St Pierre Park and Octopus.
Infinity MD Paul Nobes confirmed he had been working with the parties for 18 months on ideas, but said it was too early to go into detail.
Mr Coppolo said that so far the Pier 17 tenant had been working in partnership with architects to prepare early conceptual designs that explore how the site could look.
‘The commerciality and viability of these are being considered, along with a number of other options,’ he said.
‘While the plans remain at an early stage, if commercial and viable, this initiative could potentially be a very significant regeneration opportunity in a prime location in St Peter Port. Guernsey Ports will continue to review these proposals as they are progressed in greater detail in the coming months.’
The plans comes at a time of change at the harbour. The Boathouse restaurant recently closed after many years at the vehicle entrance to the Crown Pier, and an eatery has been opened up on the arm.
Guernsey Ports has been looking at options for how to better use its assets in recent times.
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