Discover
Historic Buildings
Our buildings provide an insight into nearly five centuries of building construction in Jersey
As well as caring for 30 historic buildings ranging from mills and farmhouses to fortifications, the Trust also campaigns to secure a sustainable future for important historic places in Jersey threatened with demolition or disrepair. Over the years these have included 5 Library Place, Tesson Mill, Colomberie House, La Fantasie, 16 New Street and most recently the Foot Buildings. Although some notable successes have been achieved, the tragic loss of Colomberie House and the demolition of the modest but characterful 12/14 Hilgrove Street highlights the need for continuing vigilance.
When maintaining its own properties the Trust ensures that repairs are undertaken in the traditional manner by a small team of skilled local craftsmen, with any additions or alterations being reversible and secondary to the main building. This policy of protecting historic character, integrity and significance has not prevented the Trust from sensitively adapting its buildings to meet modern requirements. On many of our projects we have enhanced the building's energy and water efficiency through the installation of rainwater harvesting systems, solar panels and sheep’s wool insulation. Unfortunately public access to most of our historic properties is limited, as the majority are let on long term leases in order to generate income for our ongoing work. However, a small number of the Trust's properties are regularly open to the public during the summer.
With an estimated repair backlog of just under £3M, the Trust faces an enormous challenge in the future. However, the Trust is determined to continue to campaign and have the courage to act as a building preservation trust where necessary, to prevent further losses to our historic environment.
