Ports of Jersey has today issued a Request for Information (RFI) to the development market, marking a major step forward in the long-planned regeneration of the Merchants’ Quay and La Folie site.
The RFI invites potential partners to formally express interest in delivering a heritage-led, hospitality-focused redevelopment that will bring La Folie and South Pier House back into public use and develop a 160-room hotel on the site, enhancing the waterfront experience, and protecting some of the harbour’s most historically significant buildings.
The initiative forms part of the wider Harbour Master Plan, which sets out a long-term vision to create a more vibrant, accessible, and economically active harbour environment – while safeguarding and celebrating Jersey’s maritime heritage.
A milestone for the future of the harbour
The RFI follows an initial phase of informal engagement, during which Ports of Jersey held discussions with a range of interested parties to gauge market appetite and gather early insights. Those conversations confirmed strong interest and have helped define the scope and priorities of the next phase.
The RFI now seeks structured feedback from hospitality operators, developers, investors, and design teams, with the aim of identifying high-quality partners capable of delivering a development that is commercially robust, architecturally sensitive, and grounded in a strong sense of place.
Proposals will be expected to:
- Deliver a 160-room hotel
- Restore and reinvigorate key heritage assets, including La Folie and South Pier House
- Create new public spaces and enhance access to the waterfront
- Bring forward high-quality hospitality, leisure or cultural uses
- Deliver long-term community benefit and economic value
- Respect the historic character and coastal setting of St Helier Harbour
Responses to the RFI will formally begin the competitive process to develop and regenerate the site.
Matt Thomas, CEO of Ports of Jersey, said: “Launching this RFI is an important moment for the future of the harbour. La Folie and Merchants’ Quay hold enormous cultural and historical value for Islanders, and this is our opportunity to restore those buildings and create a vibrant new destination for residents and visitors.
“We are looking for partners who understand the importance of heritage, who can deliver outstanding hospitality and public spaces, and who share our ambition to bring this part of the waterfront back to life. This RFI is the first formal step, following our earlier engagement with the market, and we are excited to build on those conversations.”
Respecting heritage, delivering for the Island
La Folie has been closed to the public for many years, and its buildings have deteriorated significantly. Ports of Jersey is committed to protecting the integrity of the structures while enabling a development that will activate the surrounding area, complement the port environment, and strengthen Jersey’s visitor economy.
The Planning Department has responded positively to the initial conversations, highlighting the potential for the scheme to deliver meaningful enhancements to La Folie, improve public access, and benefit the wider community.
The RFI also reflects extensive early engagement with heritage organisations, architects, planning specialists, tourism representatives, and community stakeholders.
Next steps
The RFI will remain open for submissions until 22 January 2026. Following review of responses, Ports of Jersey expects to continue the competitive process to select a development partner.
For further information, please email merchantsquay@twobirds.com.