Plans to revive the railway on Jersey Island after a 90-year hiatus.

Possible return of trains to Jersey Island

According to The Sun: Trains may return to Jersey Island, providing direct connectivity between the capital and the airport.

Trains have not operated on the largest canal island since 1936, but one company intends to restore them for the convenience of travelers.

The Jersey Western Railway (JWR) company hopes to restore trains that will provide "accessible, comfortable, and sustainable transport for Jersey."

The planned route will follow most of the old track, connecting the capital St. Helier with La Corbière and the airport.

Long-term plans and social benefits

In the long term, JWR intends to offer a special service for beaches, a direct line from Trenton Square to Jersey Airport, and even bring a steam locomotive into service.

Free rides will be available for those over 65 and for people with medical or mobility issues.

While concrete plans are yet to be developed, JWR encourages people to express their interest in the project on its website.

As stated by JWR founder Alexander Sperro, "if plans receive support, trains will run every seven and a half minutes, and the trip will cost £4.90."

The history of railways on Jersey

The previous railway service on Jersey was opened in 1870 and connected St. Helier with St. Aubin.

It offered hourly services, later expanding to every half hour. The popularity of the railway increased due to attractions at the stations, such as concerts, acrobatic performances, and fireworks.

Three years later, a second railway - the Jersey Eastern Railway - opened, transporting passengers from St. Helier to Gorey Pier.

With the advent of buses, the end of railway service on the island began, as buses could operate over greater distances at a lower price.

The Jersey Eastern Railway closed in 1929, and the original Jersey Railway closed in 1936.

It is worth noting that there are two small trains operating on the island - Le Petite Train.

These mini-trains travel a scenic route along the waterfront through St. Aubin Bay, operating seven days a week and accommodating up to 60 people.

This is a great way for tourists to explore the island, but not very convenient for daily use.

Modern recreational opportunities

The old railway track on Jersey, technically, still exists - it has been transformed into a quiet pedestrian and cycling path.

Island residents can walk or ride bicycles from St. Aubin to La Corbière, enjoying the views of St. Ouen's Bay and the La Corbière lighthouse.

Along the way, there are also stops, such as Off the Rails, where pizza, tapas, and burgers are offered, or visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Jersey lavender farm in the right season and taste cream tea.

Jersey is also famous for its many walking trails, including the 48-mile Jersey Coastal Path.

In the high season, there are many bike rental places, as well as buses and taxis.

Carolina McGuire, head of Sun Travel (Digital), noted that during her visit to Jersey, she enjoyed the amazing beaches that are often located next to free parking lots and cozy cafes with generous portions of food and cold beer.

She shared that her favorite spot became the bistro Le Braye on St. Ouen's beach, popular among surfers. The beach is famous for its white sand that stretches across the entire western coastline of Jersey.

She added:

“We dined on fish and chips, chicken schnitzel, and Thai curry, watching the sunset with sand between our toes and a glass of Gascony wine in hand.”

Jersey has had no working trains since the 1930s.

The revival of trains on Jersey Island could be an important step towards improving the region's transport infrastructure. It will provide residents and tourists with a convenient and eco-friendly way to move around while also supporting the development of local tourism. If the project is implemented, Jersey will once again be able to enjoy railway connectivity, which holds immense historical value for the island.