Ten years ago the Jersey National Park was officially recognised ensuring the protection and conservation of its coastline and the enhancement of its beauty, cultural heritage and wildlife.
Park director Mike Stentiford MBE described it as ‘an environmental entity worth its weight in “celebratory gold”’ because much had been achieved.
Today, it encompasses 2,145 hectares – 16% of the Island’s land mass – of dramatic and fully protected coastline including St Ouen’s Bay, which is known as ‘the heart of the Jersey National Park’.
Established in July 2014, the Park was included in the Revised 2011 Island Plan Zoning Map which set out its precise boundaries. This followed The National Trust for Jersey’s ‘The Line in the Sand’ public demonstration in 2009 when about 7,000 Islanders joined hands along the shoreline of St Ouen’s Bay to show their concern about inappropriate coastal development.
Mike said: ‘The Park is referred to whenever a planning application relates directly to any envisaged new and major coastal development within its boundaries. Such robust planning measure continue to ensure that much of the Jersey coastline continues to receive maximum protection against any obtrusive development.’
Next year, the Frances Le Sueur Centre, which was underused but then restored to provide a popular venue for a wide variety of eco-wellbeing activities and nature conservation volunteering, celebrates its 30th birthday.
Mike added that a recently-appointed advisory Board of Directors, together with a part-time chief officer and a communications and engagement manager, means there are lots of exciting celebrations and opportunities ahead with further promotions and events planned.
