FORT Regent’s derelict swimming pool could be turned into a huge community centre for the Island.
Two church groups are joining forces in the Island and have inquired about taking over responsibility for the building. They would like to turn it into a venue available to charity organisations, religious groups, support groups, events for children and conferences.
The pool was closed in December 2003 and has lain derelict for the past five years. The leaders of Jersey Community Church and the Abundant Life Church have now written to Treasury Minister Terry Le Sueur to explore the possibility of a long-term lease of the swimming pool.
Dr John Stewart-Jones, senior pastor of the Jersey Community Church, said that the two churches had been considering the partnership for around 18 months to enable them to make a bigger impact in the Island. ‘The amalgamation isn’t as a result of us wanting to use the Fort Regent pool,’ he said. ‘This is something that was in the process of happening, and as a result we are now looking for a larger venue. We want to be able to provide a greater facility and service to the community.’
• Picture: John Stewart-Jones (foreground) and Andrew de Gruchy, senior pastor fo the Abundant Life Church, who want to take over the Fort pool to create a new church. Picture by Richard Wainwright (00579603)
