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Guernsey Ports have won permission to convert part of the former marine centre on Albert Pier into a retail unit, but it could be some time before a commercial lease for a tenant is agreed.
The Marine Services Centre moved to the New Jetty last October to create a one stop shop for marina administration and enquiries, combining it with the harbour office and the shipping registry.
Part of the former site at the end of Albert Pier can now be repurposed into a retail unit with ancillary storage after planning approved a change of use.
“Guernsey Ports is in discussion with a prospective tenant for the premises, with a view to a lease being agreed this year,” a spokesperson said.
The States department has been working to commercialise other parts of the harbour estate including the Vivier Bunker – which is now leased to a gin distiller – and Round Top Stores, but negotiations over the lease to allow it to be used for al fresco dining is ongoing after several months.
Ports also raised concerns that the former marine centre was poorly located due to commuter traffic on the pier and was a source of confusion for alighting cruise passengers.
“In the summer, the area at the end of the Albert Pier is well used by cruise ship passengers as well as visiting mariners, who often mistook the centre for tourist information. Staff were frequently prevented from carrying out their main duties, and access for local leisure mooring holders was restricted due to the limitations of parking on the pier,” it said.
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