Concept designs for a two-storey new building, to include a revamped Pier 17 restaurant, were shared by local architecture firm DLM at the Relocate to Guernsey show in London last week.
French sailor Xavier Ferrand, who has been visiting the island for 50 years, said he was a supporter of a more traditional style.
‘The building now is not so nice, and can be improved, but this is a bit too modern, too much glass,’ he said. ‘You have Castle Cornet right behind and you need to evoke that.’
The building next to Pier 17 currently houses marina facilities and Mr Ferrand said they were already excellent.
‘In France they are not so good, here they are always clean and always have hot water, all my friends say the same.’
Another islander, who asked not to be named, said the restaurant was a hidden gem.
‘Not many people seem to know it’s there,’ she said.
‘The food is excellent, but to add an elevated view across the harbour would be phenomenal.’
However, she agreed with Mr Ferrand about the initial designs.
‘It needs to be more sympathetic with the surroundings,’ she said.
‘Perhaps combining the existing granite brickwork.’
Mel Reece, who regularly parks on the pier, also welcomed the plans but asked who would be ultimately paying for the upgraded building.
‘I don’t mind the design but having read the story it’s all a bit vague at the moment,’ she said.
‘Is the restaurateur paying? Or the taxpayer?’
The plans are currently at a very early stage, with Guernsey Ports, Pier 17, developer Infinity and DLM all in talks about how a redevelopment could take place. Exact details about how the project will be funded or what else the building could contain has not yet been confirmed.
The area is the first thing cruise passengers see as they arrive and another islander said the area could do with an upgrade.
‘It doesn’t give a great first impression at the moment,’ she said.
‘Perhaps part of the building could be used to allow them to spend a bit of money when they first arrive or are waiting.
‘The restaurant would really have spectacular views, different to anywhere else, so I can see why they would be keen for change.’
The plans provoked a lot of discussion online, with commentators largely in favour of the plans.
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