JSPCA shares 'huge concern' for future of its charity shop amid St John road closures

The JSPCA charity shop is calling for support in the run-up to 15 months of roadworks on St John's main road.

The Animals' Shelter has told Channel 103 that paying rent for its charity shop in Sion is a 'huge concern' for the next year, until their lease comes to an end.

It's after signs went up on La Grande Route de St Jean, advising motorists to expect delays from next month until February 2027 because of sewage network upgrades.

Read: St John's main road closures until February 2027

The road will be closed in sections between Mont a L'Abbe and Sion village, where the JSPCA has its charity shop.

Proceeds from the shop help to fund the charity's mission to protect and care for Jersey's wildlife and stray pets.

CEO Pam Aubert says it is going to have an impact on how they pay all the bills.

"There's going to be a lot of concern for many residents and businesses [in the area], but for the JSPCA, the charity shop is a great window for us, and it is going to have an impact on perhaps people coming to us easily.

"What we want to do is stay optimistic and hope people will still be there; we'll still need the support and help of our community.

Pam says it is more than just a shop:

"There are a lot of regulars that come in; they rely on that community connection and that social need.

"It will have an impact on the number of people accessing our shop and the income that comes through, so overall it will have a big impact financially as well as socially."

Credit: JSPCA Charity Shop

The charity shop's lease is coming to an end in autumn/winter next year, and the JSPCA is looking for a new home.

Pam says that although the road closure will impact cash coming through the tills, this could allow them to find somewhere new.

"If there are people out there who would like to support the JSPCA with a pop-up or somewhere else to look at and consider for a charity shop, we'd be all ears and all welcome to any suggestions, but we're there for the next year, definitely.

"We're open to different options."

"It's about trying to get as many people as possible to access us whilst we're still there, so, between now and Christmas, please come shop with us.

"We are aware that it is going to have an impact on the charity takings."

The government says access for residents and businesses will be maintained, and diversions will be in place.