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HM Customs & Immigration Services advises the public that its office will close at 11:30 on Friday, 02 October 2026, to allow staff to participate in the “Pass the Baton” event.
Normal services will resume at 09:00 on Monday, 05 October 2026.
Rising Prices and What They Mean for St Helena
We know that rising prices are causing real concern across St Helena. Households are seeing the effect on everyday costs, while businesses are facing higher fuel, freight and operating costs. Government is listening to these concerns, monitoring the pressures closely and taking action to soften their impact where public finances allow.
The latest published figures from the Statistics Office show that prices rose by an average of 2.7% in the year to March 2026. This is an average across a range of goods and services, so it will not reflect every household’s experience. Over the same period, household energy prices increased by 8.5%, food prices increased by 2.2%, and communications prices, including internet, phone and data, did not change.
Because St Helena imports many goods from the UK and South Africa, price changes in those countries affect costs here. Figure 1 shows that inflation in St Helena broadly follows trends in both countries. Inflation has fallen from the peaks seen in 2022, but pressures remain. South African inflation rose from 3% in February 2026 to 5% in June, while UK inflation remains above the Bank of England’s 2% target. The outlook remains uncertain and will continue to be monitored.
Figure 1. Headline inflation in St Helena, the UK and South Africa, 2016-2026
The present pressures have several causes, including disruption to global supply chains, the continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and international conflict. These factors have increased the cost of food, fuel, freight and other imports on which St Helena depends.
Why higher oil prices matter
Figure 2. Price of Brent crude oil in 2026, US dollars per barrel
Global oil prices have been volatile during 2026 as conflict involving Iran has disrupted markets. Although prices fell during the ceasefire period, they remain above pre-conflict levels. This affects the cost of fuel imported to St Helena which in turn can also increase freight, electricity and transport costs.
No one can predict oil prices with certainty. The 2026/27 Budget included an allowance for higher prices, and current market forecasts suggest prices may ease during 2027. However, renewed or prolonged conflict could delay or reverse that fall. Government will therefore continue to monitor oil prices and the effect on local costs.
What Government is doing now
Government cannot prevent international price rises from reaching St Helena, but it can take practical steps to limit some of the impact, support household incomes and protect essential services.
We are taking these pressures seriously. Ministers will continue to review price data, fuel and freight costs, and the effect on households and businesses. We will also continue listening to the concerns raised by the community and will adjust our response where there is clear evidence of need and an affordable, effective option.
Action already taken includes:
Electricity. The electricity tariff has increased by 1p per kilowatt-hour rather than the 3p increase that would otherwise have been required. Government has allocated £172,000 through the Fuel Risk Share mechanism to limit the increase for consumers.
This support is in addition to the existing £1.5 million annual subsidy to Connect St Helena Ltd, which helps keep utility charges below the full cost of providing the services.
Freight. Changes to the shipping schedule are helping to limit the effect of higher fuel costs on sea freight. Because most goods arrive by ship, containing freight costs helps reduce pressure on the price of imported goods into the Island.
Air travel. SHG and Airlink have agreed a way to adjust ticket prices when aviation fuel prices change. Although this has resulted in a modest ticket increase, SHG continues to absorb most of the additional fuel cost. This supports residents who need to travel, Saints returning home, visitors and the wider tourism economy.
Government is also paying more for fuel, imported materials, supplies, freight and public services. Where budgets allow, these increases are being absorbed rather than automatically passed on through higher public charges. This is another way of limiting the pressure on households and businesses.
Government also continues to subsidise public transport, air access, the ferry service, firewood and other essential services. These subsidies help keep the prices paid by the public below the full cost of providing the services.
Further support for households
Keeping some prices down is only part of the response. Increasing incomes and providing targeted support can also help households meet everyday costs.
Support for workers
The minimum wage is an important way of supporting people on lower incomes. It has increased by more than inflation since 2023, as shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3. Annual percentage change in prices and the minimum wage, financial years 2020-2025
In July 2026, the minimum wage increased to £4.85 per hour for people aged 18 and over and £3.83 per hour for those under 18. This was another above-inflation increase, helping to protect the spending power of lower-paid workers. The decision followed consultation with employers, employees, the Chamber of Commerce and other stakeholders.
Support for families with young children
A Child Benefit payment will be introduced from November 2026 to support eligible resident families with young children. Families face costs not only for food and energy but also for infant products and childcare. The payment will apply to children aged 0-5 who have not started full-time primary school. It will be £15 per child per week in Year One, rising to £20 per child per week in Year Two. Further information on eligibility and how to apply will be published before the scheme begins.
Supporting older people’s mobility
Government will introduce concessionary Public Transport Service (PTS) fares for people aged 70, recognising the importance of affordable transport in helping older people remain mobile and connected. Changes to the PTS – which also include additional and seasonal journeys, clearer timetables, and lower Hop On Hop Off fares – come into effect on the 1st October 2026. A press release with additional information can be found on the SHG website.
Continuing work to protect living standards
Government will continue to support living standards through expenditure on healthcare, air access, public transport, the Basic Island Pension, Income Related Benefit, and agriculture and fishing subsidies.
During 2026/27, Government will review customs duties in the context of the cost of living. Work on the telecommunications licensing framework will consider how it can better serve consumers in St Helena.
The prices of household energy and communications, which together make up around 15% of the Consumer Price Index basket, are regulated. The Fuel Risk Share mechanism will also continue to help manage the effect of fuel prices on electricity tariffs.
Government cannot completely shield households and businesses from world events. However, protecting living standards is a central priority, and this work will continue beyond the 2026/27 Budget.
If oil prices rise further, Government will assess additional options. Any further support will need to be affordable, effective and targeted as fairly as possible.
Reducing St Helena’s future vulnerability
Immediate support matters, but St Helena must also reduce its exposure to international price increases. Government’s longer-term work includes:
Supporting agriculture. Increasing local food production to reduce dependence on imports, freight and exchange rates.
Energy. Expanding renewable energy generation and storage to reduce dependence on imported diesel and give the Island more control over future energy costs.
Telecommunications. Progressing the proposed telecommunications upgrade so St Helena can make better use of the Equiano cable, improve services and introduce a modern regulatory framework with stronger consumer protection.
Housing. The availability and cost of suitable housing has a direct impact on household budgets, which is why work to improve Government housing and increase affordable housing options also forms part of the wider effort to improve living standards.
These projects will take time and will not reduce this week’s shopping bill. They are nevertheless essential if St Helena is to become less vulnerable to future international price shocks.
There is no single answer to the cost-of-living pressures facing St Helena. Government will continue to listen, publish clear information and act where it can: supporting people through immediate pressures while making the changes needed to build a more resilient Island for the future.
#StHelena #Costofliving #Risingprices
Further to the previous announcement regarding the temporary road closure between Bates Branch and the Junction at Stitches Ridge, St Paul’s, the public is advised that the closure has been extended until Friday, 16 October 2026.
The extension is required to allow the Roads and Forestry Sections additional time to safely complete essential surface maintenance and tree-felling works along the route.
The closure will remain in effect from 09:00 to 15:00, Monday through Friday, with no weekend closures. Traffic travelling to and from Sandy Bay should continue to use the diversion route via Stitches Ridge Road and Lemon Tree Gut.
Full access will be maintained for emergency vehicles at all times, with appropriate safety measures in place to allow work crews sufficient time to clear the roadway when required. Appropriate traffic management signs will remain in place to assist motorists.
We apologise for the continued inconvenience this may cause and thank residents, motorists and the wider public for their patience, understanding and cooperation while these important maintenance works are completed.
The Hampshire Improvement and Advisory Service (HIAS) will return to St Helena this October for a two-week programme of professional support focused on strengthening literacy teaching and improving outcomes for pupils across the island’s schools.
The HIAS team will arrive on Saturday 3 October and will work alongside staff across all three schools during their two-week visit. The programme will build on the ongoing partnership between HIAS and St Helena’s education sector, with a strong focus on developing consistent, effective approaches to reading and writing from the early years of schooling through to and including secondary education.
During the visit, HIAS advisers will work directly with teachers and teaching assistants through lesson observations, learning walks, coaching, professional development and practical workshops.
In Key Stage 1, the programme will focus on developing early reading and writing, including phonics, blending skills, writing development and the accuracy of reading and writing assessment. Staff will also have opportunities to explore foundational writing skills and approaches to supporting pupils to become increasingly confident readers and writers.
In Key Stage 2, the focus will include strengthening the writing curriculum, adapting teaching and resources to support lower-attaining pupils, and maximising the impact of teaching assistants and other additional adults. The programme includes curriculum planning, coaching, demonstration lessons and professional development around adaptations and scaffolding.
The visit will also support secondary practitioners in developing their knowledge of phonics and early reading, including the use of the Fresh Start intervention to support students who continue to require help with decoding.
A key element of the programme will be building sustainable improvements in teaching practice. HIAS will work with staff on consistent use of scaffolding, explicit instruction, high-quality modelling and approaches that encourage greater pupil independence. The programme will also look at the effective deployment of additional adults through structured support, consistent communication and targeted intervention.
The programme forms part of Education Skills and Employment’s broader programme of education improvement, which aims to strengthen education provision across St Helena and support continued improvements in teaching, learning and outcomes for pupils. The ongoing partnership with HIAS provides an important opportunity to build capacity within St Helena’s schools and support sustainable improvements in practice.
#StHelena #HIAS #AltogetherBetterforChildrenandYoungPeople
An open session of Executive Council in Planning (ECiP) was held on Tuesday, 22 September 2026 in the Council Chamber.
The agenda for the meeting was as follows:
OPEN AGENDA
1. Declarations of Conflict of Interest
2. Development Application – Construction of a One-bedroom Dwelling at East Lodge, near Gordon’s Post (ECIP Memo 05/2026)
2.1 Publicity/Briefings to the Press
3. Development Application – Installation of Covered Area at the Mule Yard (retrospective) (ECIP Memo 06/2026)
3.1 Publicity/Briefings to the Press
4. Development Application – Installation of Wastewater Treatment Plant, Sand Yard, Jamestown (ECIP Memo 07/2026)
4.1 Publicity/Briefings to the Press
5. Development Application: Installation of Wastewater Treatment Plant at The Guns, Half Tree Hollow (ECIP Memo 08/2026)
5.1 Publicity/Briefings to the Press
The Chief Planning Officer (CPO), Patricia Coyle and Planning Officer (PO) Petra Joshua were in attendance.
At the meeting:
There were no declarations of Conflict of Interest.
For each of the four applications listed below, Minister Karl Thrower set out the context before handing over to the CPO and PO to describe the applications and recommendations as outlined in the documentation.
The following two applications were presented by the PO. HE The Governor then followed by opening the floor for questions and discussion which centred on the recommended conditions.
Development Application – Construction of a One-bedroom Dwelling at East Lodge, near Gordon’s Post (ECIP Memo 05/2026)
Minister Karl Thrower and the Attorney General confirmed that they dive regularly with the applicant, the Chief Minister confirmed the applicant as a friend of her children.
The Development Application is being referred to the Governor in Council under section 23(2)(b)(i) of the Land Planning and Development Control Ordinance 2013. This is required when the Planning Authority considers that approving an application would be inconsistent with the Development Plan, but that other relevant planning considerations may justify granting permission.
Governor in Council was asked to consider and advise whether Full Development Permission should be granted, with Conditions, as recommended for the Proposed Construction of a one-bedroom dwelling at East Lodge, near Gordon’s Post.
It was noted that approving the application could be perceived as setting a precedent. However, on balance, it was agreed that the material planning considerations listed were sufficiently outside of precedence.
Executive Council in Planning therefore agreed with the LDCA’s decision and approved the granting of full development permission.
Development Application – Installation of Covered Area at the Mule Yard (retrospective) (ECIP Memo 06/2026)
The Development Application is being referred to Governor in Council in accordance with the Direction issued under section 23(1) of the Land Development Control Ordinance 2013 which requires all applications within fifty metres of the sea to be referred to Governor in Council (unless specific exclusions apply).
Governor in Council was asked to consider and advise whether Full Development Permission should be granted, with Conditions, as recommended for the, Installation of Covered Area at the Mule Yard (retrospective).
This is a retrospective application seeking to retain the already installed additional covered area that is attached to the food outlet at The Mule Yard.
It was recognised that, although the structure was located within the fortifications, the roof of the existing structure did not form part of them. Consideration was also given to the nearby tree, which is protected by a Tree Preservation Order.
It was highlighted that this was the second retrospective application submitted by the same licensee for development on SHG-leased property. Members wished to discourage repeated non-compliance with the planning process and agreed that the matter should be raised as an action point at the next Executive Council meeting.
Executive Council in Planning agreed with the LDCA’s decision and granted retrospective full development permission, subject to conditions.
The following applications were presented by the CPO. The Governor then followed by opening the floor for questions and discussion which centred on the recommended conditions.
Development Application: Installation of Wastewater Treatment Plant at The Guns, Half Tree Hollow (ECIP Memo 08/2026)
Governor in Council is asked to consider and advise whether Full Development Permission should be approved with conditions, as recommended for the installation of a Wastewater Treatment Plant at “The Guns”, Half Tree Hollow.
The Development Application is being referred to Governor in Council in accordance with the Direction issued on 14th June 2022 under section 23(1) of the Land Development Control Ordinance 2013 which requires the referral of applications for development of land for Utilities infrastructure of public supply, and whether in public or private ownership (including sewerage). This development would be for sewerage infrastructure.
Members recognised the importance of the development while remaining mindful of its proximity to historic buildings and a public sporting amenity. They gave considerable weight to the public’s concerns raised through the planning process. These concerns included how the proposed wastewater treatment plant would affect the historic character of the Heritage Coast Conservation Area, odour, impact on near recreational facilities, and whether the plans had provided enough detail for the proposal to be properly assessed. These concerns formed part of the planning decision. Members noted that the new plant is expected to reduce odours associated with the existing septic tanks. The planning officer stated that significant odour is unlikely during normal operation because of the plant’s enclosed design and its distance from nearby homes, but acknowledged that odour may occur during periodic cleaning or maintenance. The need for the public to be informed about planned maintenance times was agreed. After serious consideration Members agreed that the maintenance operations were better managed through the new utilities licence rather than through planning conditions.
Executive Council in Planning therefore approved the granting of full development permission, subject to the conditions cited by the LDCA and the addition of Condition 14. This is a requirement for the larger part of the construction to be covered in wood timber slats to reduce the visual impact.
Development Application – Installation of Wastewater Treatment Plant, Sand Yard, Jamestown (ECIP Memo 07/2026)
Governor in Council is asked to consider and advise whether Full Development Permission should be approved with conditions, as recommended for the installation of a Wastewater Treatment Plant at The Sand Yard, Jamestown.
The Development Application is being referred to Governor in Council in accordance with the Direction issued on 14th June 2022 under section 23(1) of the Land Development Control Ordinance 2013 which requires the referral of applications for development of land for Utilities infrastructure of public supply, and whether in public or private ownership (including sewerage). This development would be for sewerage infrastructure.
Members discussed the concerns raised through the planning process which included how the proposed wastewater treatment plant would affect the historic character of the Heritage Coast Conservation Area, odour, impact on near food outlets, and whether the plans had provided enough detail for the proposal to be properly assessed. The Planning Office acknowledged that drawings were missing at first and says revised plans were issued for further consultation. It was noted that the plant would not resolve the bottlenecks in the existing sewerage network, as these were caused by the limited capacity of the pipes in the catchment area leading to the plant, which fell outside the scope of this application.
Condition 13 was approved which includes strict time restrictions on the planned maintenance.
Executive Council in Planning approved the granting of full development permission, subject to all Conditions cited by the LDCA. It was also agreed that an additional Condition 14 should be added. This is a requirement for the larger part of the construction to be covered in wood timber slats to reduce the visual impact.
#StHelena #ECiP #Toplines www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/www.x.com/StHelenaGovt
A meeting of Executive Council (ExCo) was held on 22 September 2026.
The agenda for the meeting was as follows:
| CLOSED AGENDA 1. Declaration of Interest 2. Confirmation of Minutes of the Executive Council Meeting held on 8 September 2026. 3. Matters Arising from Minutes of 8 September 2026 4. Ship Registry Regulations, 2026 (ExCo Memo 37/2026) 5. Update – British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Agreement/Programme) 6. Ministerial Updates on Significant Issues 7. Any Other Business NB Items marked (*) are commercially sensitive and depending on the subject matter, might not be referred to in the top lines. |
The following items were considered:
- Declaration of Interest
There were none.
2 – 3. Confirmation of Minutes and Matters Arising from the Minutes from 8 September 2026.
Executive Council confirmed and signed off the minutes of the meeting held on 8 September 2026.
4. Ship Registry Regulations, 2026 (ExCo Memo 37/2026)
Executive Council considered whether the Ship Registry Regulations, 2026, as presented should be approved and published.
Members noted that the proposed Regulations are designed to give legal effect to the Ship Registry Policy 2026; ensure there is relevant secondary legislation to the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (MSO); implement the Flag State requirements, as described in the Ship Registry Policy 2026, and align with St Helena’s Category 2 Registry status.
The Merchant Shipping (Registration of Ships) Regulations 2026 apply to vessels registered, or seeking registration, on the St Helena Ship Register. The Regulations provide the legal framework for the registration and administration of ships on the Register, including commercial vessels, fishing vessels, pleasure vessels and bareboat charter ships. They do not introduce safety or licensing requirements for domestic vessels operating solely within St Helena’s waters (200nM EEZ); these are being considered separately through the Domestic Vessels Licensing and Safety Standards Policy.
Executive Council supported and approved the Ship Registry Regulations, 2026 effective from 22 September 2026.
5. Update – British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) Agreement/Programme
Members discussed the BIOT preparedness programme report prepared by the BIOT Project Manager. The report records progress and spend against the programme activities, including the conversion of former Longwood First School and Signal House to provide accommodation in the event of future migrant arrivals, a BIOT response plan, and training for Immigration. The report forms a regular update to Executive Council under the BIOT programme governance framework. Members were pleased to note that the programme activities are largely on track.
Members discussed the timeline for the drafting of the Data Protection Ordinance. A legal drafter has been secured and is expected to be on island in November.
6. Ministerial Updates on Significant Issues
6.1 Minister Thrower sought clarification from members on the documentation that should be shared with ExCo as part of the wider Company Registration and Financial Services reform programme. The programme comprises a significant body of interconnected policy, regulatory and legislative work. The first draft legislation is being shared with Legislative Council, alongside preparations for public consultation.
Minister Thrower noted that a number of supporting documents will also be produced by the Economic Development Portfolio which may not, individually, require formal approval by ExCo. However, these documents form fundamental parts of the wider programme of work and provide important context for the legislation and other matters that will subsequently require consideration through ExCo and Legislative Council.
Members were therefore asked whether they would find it helpful for all significant documents produced as part of the programme to be circulated to ExCo for information, including those not requiring formal approval. This would allow non-ministerial members in particular to develop a broader understanding of the overall programme and be better informed when considering those elements that subsequently require approval or progression through Council.
6.2 In the light of public concerns regarding fuel prices and food security the Chief Minister highlighted the need for and importance of providing updated information of the work of the fuel and food resilience forum to keep the issues under active review and assessment of action to address these issues. It was suggested that an update on the Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak in South Africa would be timely to help understand the impacts on St Helena. Minister Brooks confirmed that the Food and Fuel Resilience Forum will be meeting in early October.
#StHelena #ExCo #Toplines
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St Helena has a new five-year plan to become one of the world’s most authentic island destinations, with Executive Council approving the St Helena Tourism Strategy and Delivery Plan 2026-2031. Launched today, on UN World Tourism Day, the Strategy aims to grow tourism steadily and sustainably, so that the benefits are felt by the island’s people and economy.
The Strategy identifies priorities for destination development, marketing, visitor experiences, infrastructure, industry development and partnerships, alongside the protection of the island’s environment, heritage, culture and distinctive character.
It recognises that the future of tourism on St Helena depends on collaboration across the island. Government, tourism businesses, community organisations, non-government organisations (NGOs) and other partners all have an important role to play in developing the visitor experience, protecting the island’s natural and cultural assets, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared across the community.
Minister for Tourism, Hon Karl Thrower, said:
“On UN World Tourism Day, I want to thank the people of St Helena, and particularly everyone who works in and supports our tourism sector, for their resilience, commitment and contribution throughout what has been a challenging year.
Being named winner of the 2026 Family Traveller Awards’ Emerging Family Destination is something St Helena can be proud of. It reflects the hard work of our tourism businesses and the growing international recognition of St Helena as a destination offering something genuinely different.
But tourism growth is not an end in itself. Our ambition is to grow tourism in a way that creates meaningful and lasting benefits for St Helenians, supporting local businesses, strengthening our economy and protecting the qualities that make St Helena such a special place.
The St Helena Tourism Strategy and Delivery Plan 2026–2031 provides a roadmap for achieving this through sustainable growth, while keeping our community at the heart of tourism’s future.
We have made encouraging progress, but there is still much more to do. By continuing to work together across Government, the tourism industry and our community, we can build on that progress and strengthen St Helena’s reputation as an authentic and distinctive island destination.”
The accompanying Delivery Plan offers shared guidance for Government, the tourism industry and other stakeholders, with practical priorities and actions for 2026–2031.
Implementation will take place gradually, with progress reviewed to reflect changing markets, visitor trends and local needs. Government will continue to work with tourism businesses, NGOs, community organisations and other partners to deliver the Strategy and ensure that tourism growth contributes positively to St Helena’s economy, environment and community.
The full Strategy and Delivery Plan can be read at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/app/uploads/2026/09/Tourism-Strategy-and-Delivery-Plan-2026-2031.pdf
World Tourism Day also marks the official launch of St Helena’s new hero video, ‘Breathe St Helena – An Island Adventure Awaits’, produced locally by Colby Thomas of Ridge to Reef Media. The video can be viewed at https://youtu.be/P0jmJTOhrKM or on the SURE promo channel.
#StHelena #TourismStrategy #UNWorldTourismDay
Changes to the Public Transport Service will come into effect on 1 October 2026, following public feedback and a review of routes, ticket prices and the cost of operating the service.
The changes are intended to support continual improvement of the service. They include additional and seasonal journeys, clearer timetables, improvements to bus access, lower Hop On Hop Off fares, and lower fares for passengers aged 70 and over.
What you told us
Thank you to everyone who took part in the Public Transport Service survey earlier this year. A total of 176 responses were received from people of different ages and districts, including regular passengers, occasional users and people who do not currently use the service.
Overall, respondents told us that the service is valued. It provides an important way to travel to work, go shopping, attend appointments and take part in social and recreational activities. Buses were generally described as clean and comfortable, and many respondents said drivers were helpful and courteous.
The survey also identified several areas where the service could be improved:
• Although existing journey times met the needs of many passengers, respondents asked for additional and more conveniently timed services, including mid-morning, lunchtime, after-work and evening journeys.
• Some districts and destinations would benefit from better connections.
• Timetables were not always easy to find or understand. Concerns included small print, complicated layouts and outdated information at some bus stops.
• The cost of individual journeys could discourage some people from using the service, or from using it more often.
• Getting on and off buses could be difficult, particularly for passengers with limited mobility.
• Reliability, punctuality and clear information about routes remained important to passengers.
How the feedback is being used
The survey findings have helped shape changes to journey times, timetable presentation, Hop On Hop Off fares and bus accessibility. We cannot introduce every requested change immediately. Some additional services would not yet attract enough passengers to cover their operating costs, while others require further planning or funding. We are therefore introducing the changes that can be supported now and trialling selected additional journeys before deciding whether they should continue. The additional journeys shown in the table below will therefore be trialled for three months so that passenger use can be assessed.
Clearer timetable information. Timetable presentation has improved using a clearer format so that routes and journey times are easier to identify. Updated information will be displayed at bus shelters, the Customer Services Centre and Public Library and will be available on the St Helena Government and Tourism website at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/public-services/publictransportservice/.
More affordable individual journeys. Hop On Hop Off fares will be reduced with those users aged 70+ years benefitting from an additional reduction. This responds to concerns about the affordability of individual journeys and has been made possible by growth in monthly ticket use.
Improved access. Work is underway to install an additional handrail near bus doors to make it easier and safer for passengers to get on and off.
Journey changes from 1 October 2026
The following route changes will be introduced for a trial period of three months:
| Route | Journeys | |||
| Route 1 – Longwood | Tuesdays and Thursdays – departing Jamestown at 11:30am to Bottom Woods, return journey departing at midday. | Fridays – departing Jamestown at 17:15 to Bottom Woods, return journey starting at 17:50. | November – March – Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays – depart Jamestown at 10:30 to Longwood Green. | |
| Route 2 – Levelwood | The ‘Every Day’ journey to the CCC will travel as far as the Community Care Centre. | The Tuesday and Saturday journeys from Jamestown to Bellstone will depart at 12:50 rather than 13:00. | Last Saturday of each month: depart Jamestown at 10:10 travelling to Ruperts and back into Jamestown at 10:25. Return journey to Ruperts departing Jamestown at 12:30. | November – March:Thursdays – depart Jamestown at 10:10 to Plantation House, return journey departs at 12:35. |
| Route 3 – St Pauls and Half Tree Hollow | Tuesdays and Thursdays – depart Jamestown at 11:30 to White Gate, return journey to Jamestown departing at 12 noon. | Monday – Friday journey departing Jamestown at 07:44 to White Wall will cease to operate. Customers who currently use the journey from White Wall to Jamestown at 07:54 can use Route 4 departing White Wall at 08:05. | Fridays – depart Jamestown at 17:15 travelling to White Gate and New Ground via Sapper Way. | |
Ticket pricing
Government will continue to subsidise the Public Transport Service, currently at £115,000 per annum, so that passengers do not meet the full cost of operating it.
Ticket prices have been considered as part of a wider review of the 2024 PTS pricing model. The review took account of affordability, concerns raised through the survey, the increase in fuel prices in August 2026 and changes in the way passengers are using the service.
It is recognised that any increase in household costs matters. Monthly ticket prices will therefore increase by an average of approximately £5 per month. This is intended to make a limited contribution towards higher fuel and operating costs while allowing the service improvements to proceed.
The new Hop On Hop Off ticket costs will be:
| JOURNEY | TICKET COSTS UNDER 70s | TICKET COSTS 70+ AGE GROUP |
| Short | £2.25 | £1.30 |
| Medium | £2.50 | £1.65 |
| Long | £3.00 | £1.80 |
Children under 10 years of age will travel at half price.
Applying for the reduced fare
Passengers aged 70 and over will need to apply for a photo identification card and show it to the bus driver when travelling to receive the reduced fare. Application forms are available from the Customer Services Centre, the Public Library and Sara-Kay Yon and Lisa Bailey at the Castle, who can assist with completing the form. Staff will be available also at the Customer Services Centre in Jamestown on 29 September 2026 from 09:30 to 14:00 to provide assistance with completing the application forms.
Continuing to improve the service
These changes represent the improvements that can responsibly be introduced at this stage. SHG will continue to review passenger numbers, reliability, operating costs and public feedback each quarter.
The additional journeys will be assessed at the end of the trial period, and further improvements will be considered where there is evidence of demand and an affordable, sustainable way to provide them.
The full survey findings can be viewed on the SHG website at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/app/uploads/2026/09/PTS-Survey-Findings-Sept-26.pdf , with any information that could identify individual respondents removed. We will also publish the outcome of the trial so that passengers can see how the evidence has informed the next steps.
Government recognises that public transport has an important part to play in helping people reach work, education, appointments, shops and social activities. We will continue working to provide a service that is reliable, accessible and responsive to the needs of the community.
#StHelena #PublicTransportService #Changes
St Helena Government (SHG) has taken the decision to pause the building and refurbishment element of the Primary School Reorganisation Project while further work is undertaken to review the proposed model.
The review will consider increasing concerns about the cost, practicality and deliverability of the proposed refurbished schools. It will also consider the experience of families under the current arrangements, including the concerns raised by parents and staff about school transport.
This is not a pause to the wider work to develop and improve St Helena’s primary schools. Work to strengthen the curriculum, teaching and learning, and safeguarding will continue. The pause applies only to the buildings element of the project, allowing SHG to ensure that the facilities proposed are affordable, practical and capable of being delivered successfully.
SHG recognises that this decision will create uncertainty for the community, particularly for pupils, parents and carers, and school staff. The Primary School Reorganisation Project is, however, a once-in-a-generation opportunity to enhance the future of primary education on St Helena. Taking additional time now will allow us to learn from the experiences of running the current model and support a decision that meets the island’s long-term educational and practical needs.
As the review will extend the project timetable, the current temporary arrangements will be reviewed.
Minister for Education, Skills and Employment, Andrew Turner, commented:
“We do not get opportunities like this very often. This project must deliver the right model for St Helena’s children, families and staff; not simply for the next five years, but for the next 50 years. That means being absolutely sure that what we build is affordable, practical and capable of serving the island well for generations.
Over recent months we have listened carefully to the views of parents, staff and the wider community. We have heard genuine concerns about the practicality of the proposals, the impact of transport arrangements, and whether the project can be delivered in the way originally envisaged. It is right that we take those concerns seriously, and they will inform both the review and the improvements we make while it is under way. Pausing the buildings element is a responsible step to make sure we get this once-in-a-generation opportunity right. Our work to improve the quality of primary education, including curriculum, teaching and safeguarding, will continue.”
The community will be an important part of this review. SHG will shortly set out further opportunities for engagement, with further updates provided as the review progresses.
#StHelena #Education #PrimarySchools
The Education, Skills and Employment Portfolio (ESEP) would like to advise members of the public of the opening hours for Career Access St Helena (CASH).
With immediate effect, CASH will operate the following opening hours:
| Day | Opening Hours | Access |
| Monday – Wednesday | 09:00 – 12:00 13:00 – 15:00 | By appointment only |
| Thursday – Friday | 09:00 – 12:00 13:00 – 15:00 | Drop-ins and registered clients |
Due to KS2 using these facilities from Monday to Wednesday, members of the public wishing to access CASH services during this period are required to make an appointment in advance. All appointments will take place at the Carnarvon Court offices.
Thursdays and Fridays will be available for drop-in enquiries, as well as appointments with registered CASH clients.
CASH provides careers information, advice, and guidance to support individuals with their education, training and employment pathways.
The Education, Skills, and Employment Portfolio thanks the public for their cooperation and understanding regarding these arrangements.