UPDATE: The former beachside restaurant, Nude Dunes, is set to be repurposed into a financial services shop following a successful application for a change of use. This decision comes amidst a controversial planning dispute that has lingered since the establishment closed in November 2023.
The owner, Nadia Miller, has received permission to convert the premises into a Class A commercial use, which opens the door for a variety of tenant options, including shops, offices, beauty salons, and more. The property, located on the scenic St Ouen’s Bay, has been listed for commercial rental through Le Rossignol Estates, with rental pricing available upon inquiry.
Why This Matters NOW: The transformation of Nude Dunes signals a significant shift in the local business landscape. With the original operators closing just five months after opening, the new designation provides a pathway for economic revitalization in the area. This change is crucial for attracting businesses that can generate jobs and contribute to the community.
In a statement issued this week, Miller emphasized the importance of the new designation:
“This represents a clear and compliant shift away from all previously proposed hospitality or visitor-accommodation uses referenced in recent news coverage, and establishes a stable planning framework for the site’s future.”
She outlined that under its new classification, the building can host a diverse array of retail and public-facing activities, providing essential services to the community.
However, the property will not accommodate food services, as operations involving hot food, cafes, or bars are outside the scope of permitted activities. This restriction is part of the broader efforts to ensure that the site meets community needs without adding to previous controversies surrounding its hospitality uses.
Miller’s application process was facilitated through Jersey’s General Development legislation, which allows certain changes to proceed without the need for extensive planning consent. This legislative framework is designed to streamline development processes for properties across the island, including residential extensions and commercial conversions.
The journey for Nude Dunes has been tumultuous. After purchasing the property for £1.5 million earlier this year, Miller faced challenges in securing planning consent for a self-catered tourist accommodation unit. The ongoing disputes and the unsuccessful attempts to sell the building underscore the economic pressures following the closure of the previous operators, Nude Food, who ceased trading two years ago.
As Nude Dunes is reintroduced to the market, potential tenants are being sought for a variety of services, such as pharmacies, hairdressers, and even ticket agencies. The community’s response to these developments will be pivotal as the area seeks to redefine its commercial identity.
What’s next? As the marketing efforts ramp up, the community and prospective business owners are watching closely how this transition unfolds. Discussions regarding the future of the property will likely evolve as more details emerge about potential tenants and their plans for the site.
This latest development at Nude Dunes is not just about a change of use; it’s a critical moment for local economic recovery and community engagement. The coming weeks will be essential as stakeholders assess the implications of this shift for the vibrant coastal area of Jersey.
