Jersey's Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham has thrown his weight behind a high-profile campaign for public ownership of the Les Mielles Golf & Country Club site, which has been put up for sale with a guide price of £9.95 million. The move follows a concerted effort by local residents, led by Matt Topman, who have gathered over 600 signatures on a petition calling for the land to be acquired and rewilded.
The petition, which urges the government to explore funding options to buy the extensive plot, highlights the potential for creating an area of outstanding natural beauty within the National Park. Chief Minister Farnham acknowledged the £9.95 million price tag but suggested various avenues for securing public ownership, including using existing funds and collaborating with organisations like the National Trust.
In a bid to make the proposal a reality, Farnham has expressed his eagerness to engage in discussions with the National Trust regarding potential funding models. He also hinted at exploring contributions from wealthier residents who have expressed interest in supporting the initiative – a move reminiscent of his previous role in facilitating the public purchase of Cafe Romany at Greve de Lecq.
Petition organiser Matt Topman has welcomed Farnham's backing, stating that while nature should be a core component of the site's future, he remains open to various outcomes. The National Trust of Jersey, however, remains tight-lipped on the matter at this stage.
Les Mielles reflects a broader interest in environmental preservation and public access to significant natural landscapes within the island, with residents eager to see the land protected for generations to come.