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The Central Support Service Transport Section is keen to hear your views on the SHG operated Public Transport Service (PTS), which launched on 1 December 2024.
We are conducting a short survey to gather your feedback, assisting in future decision about the PTS, from timetables and journey frequency to fares and overall user experience.
The survey is anonymous, takes only a few minutes to complete, and is open to everyone whether you use the PTS regularly, occasionally, or not at all.
A survey form is available from the SHG website, the Customer Services Centre, Public Library, Tourist Office in Jamestown, PTS buses, and selected shops.
The survey is also available online via the link below: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PTSStHelena
Completed surveys can be left in the designated collection boxes at the Customer Services Centre, Public Library, Tourist Office, on PTS buses, and in participating shops.
The survey closes on 24 April 2026, so don’t miss your chance to have your say. Your views will make a real difference.
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#StHelena #PublicTransportService #Survey
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An open session of Executive Council in Planning (ECiP) was held on Tuesday, 17 March 2026 in the Council Chamber.
The agenda for the meeting was as follows:
The Chief Planning Officer (CPO), Patricia Coyle, was in attendance along with members of the public.
All applications considered at the meeting were being referred to Governor in Council in accordance with the Direction issued on 14 June 2022 under section 23(1) of the Land Development Control Ordinance 2013 which requires the referral of applications for development of land (excluding street furniture installations, signage, gates, solar panels, safety equipment, alterations to existing windows and alterations to existing doors) within fifty metres of the sea.
At the meeting:
For each of the three applications listed below, Minister Karl Thrower set out the context before handing over to the CPO to describe the applications and recommendations as outlined in the published documentation.
HE The Governor then followed by opening the floor for questions and discussion which centred on the recommended conditions.
Development Application – Retention of a Covered Area at the Mule Yard, Jamestown (ECIP Memo 01/2026)
Governor in Council was asked to consider and advise whether Full Development Permission should be granted, with Conditions, as recommended for the Retention of a Covered Area at The Mule Yard, Jamestown.
This was a retrospective application seeking to retain the already erected roof that covers an extended area at the front of The Mule Yard bar.
Following deliberation, ECiP approved the development application, with conditions in line with the Land Development Control Authority (LCDA) and CPO recommendations. The approval is for two years from the date of approval. The reason for this is that the Applicant has a short-term lease of the property and if permanent, this could prejudice future changes of lease holding and plans to improve the Wharf and seaside. . It was noted that the Applicant is required to paint the roof of the covered area and upstand between it and the band stand dark slate grey to match the existing roof colour of the bar.
Development Application – Installation of Fence at St Helena Coffee Shop, Jamestown (ECIP Memo 02/2026)
Governor in Council was asked to consider and advise whether Full Development Permission should be refused with reasons, as recommended for the Installation of the Fence at the St Helena Coffee Shop.
In terms of planning history, a retrospective application for the fence was refused by the LDCA on 6 June 2024, a decision subsequently upheld by Governor in Council on 23 July 2024. The Applicant later appealed, and the Land Development Appeals Tribunal (LDAT) heard the case on 7 July 2025, ultimately upholding the earlier refusals. This new proposal was submitted in response to the Tribunal’s ruling.
This application generated much discussion and debate amongst members.
Members acknowledged the need for improved security by the business to address antisocial behaviour experienced prior to the erection of the fence and the potential impact on the business owner of not having the fence, noting that the enforcement notice for the removal of the unauthorised picket fence is due to come into force in three months. However, they also recognised that substantial time and support had been provided to the Applicant to identify more suitable alternatives that aligned with the historical setting of the Grade I historical setting.
ECiP agreed with the recommendation of the Land Development Control Authority (LCDA) and Chief Planning Officer (CPO) recommendation that Full Development Permission be refused.
Development Application – Installation of Security Fencing and Crash Barrier at Wastewater Treatment Plant, Ruperts Valley (ECIP Memo 03/2026)
Governor in Council was asked to consider and advise whether Full Development Permission should be approved with conditions, as recommended for the installation of fencing and crash barrier at the Rupert’s Wastewater Treatment Plant.
ECiP welcomed the move to preserve the historical aspects of the surrounding area in the vicinity of Plant, in what is also an area of multiple uses, i.e. it is popular recreational area, as well as having industrial/business uses. They noted that the design of the fences was similar with other fencing in the area and that the crash barriers would be erected in liaison with the Highways Authority.
Following deliberation, ECiP unanimously approved the development application in line with Land Development Control Authority (LCDA) and CPO’s recommendations.
Documentation for the meeting is available via the SHG website http://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/legislative-council/executive-council/
#StHelena #ECiP #Toplines www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/www.x.com/StHelenaGovt
SHG
23 March 2026
At today’s sitting of the Legislative Council, the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill 2026, brought forward by the Chief Minister, was not passed.
Ministers today expressed disappointment that Elected Members did not pass the Income Tax Amendment Bill 2026, legislation that would have delivered the first uplift to the personal tax‑free allowance in 14 years.
Ministers recognise that many individuals and families across the island continue to face real financial pressures, particularly those on lower incomes who are most affected by rising living costs.
Ministers remain firmly committed to putting money back into people’s pockets and helping households manage the rising cost of living. The proposed amendment sought to provide immediate relief through an inflationary increase to the personal allowance, recognising the limited timeframe available for changes that must be in place for 1 April. Tax adjustments cannot be made mid‑year, and therefore the proposal represented the best possible route to offering short‑term support to the public.
At the meeting the Chief Minister highlighted that the window for implementing any changes to the tax system was exceptionally narrow. Despite these constraints, the proposal aimed to deliver a realistic and immediate benefit to taxpayers.
The Chief Minister spoke to the debate and said:
“This government wants to increase the personal allowance to £7,500. Believe me, when I say that I would have loved to be able to do that this year. But it was just not affordable. Over 20 different options were explored, but in reality, there was not enough time to be able to have a sufficiently robust assessment of the impacts of more complex options, like introducing a new tax band, or changing the higher rate of tax.”
Ministers acknowledge that there are differing views on how best to provide support and respects the role of Elected Members in this process. However, the outcome means that this opportunity to protect the real value of the tax-free allowance will not be realised this year.
Ministers remain focused on supporting residents and will continue seeking responsible and sustainable ways to ease financial pressures on households.
#StHelena #IncomeTaxAmendmentBill2026
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The Marine Section will be closed from 12:00 on Monday 23 March 2026 due to a scheduled power outage for work to be completed on the building.
Normal office hours will resume on Tuesday 24 March.
A Walk-Through History
For an island so small and remote, St Helena has played host to a remarkably large number of influential figures throughout its history. Some visitors are remembered for their positive contributions to the world, while others are perhaps more infamous than famous.
As part of the UK Government funded Tourism Development Programme, an interpretative art installation titled A Walk Through History has been installed to showcase some of the island’s notable visitors. The installation features an initial 28 plaques commemorating internationally significant figures who have visited St Helena since its discovery.
Set along one of Jamestown’s most historic areas, the walk presents St Helena’s rich and varied past in chronological order, allowing visitors to experience its story as they move through the space.
To complement the plaques, and to encourage a relaxing feel, the area has been beautified with trellised seating and planters.
Location and Site Description
The Castle Terrace wall in Jamestown has been identified as the ideal setting for the installation. This important heritage structure has been underutilised in recent years and, at times, affected by antisocial behaviour, particularly at night.
By introducing a prominent visitor attraction, the project aims to increase positive foot traffic and encourage greater use of the area. Enhanced lighting will further improve safety and security.
The Walk also strengthens links between key nearby attractions, improving access from the Wharf to Castle Gardens and surrounding businesses. The site is sheltered from extreme weather, pedestrian-friendly, and restricted to emergency and maintenance vehicles only.
Importantly, there are no entrance barriers, allowing both residents and visitors to enjoy the installation at any time.
The Dolphin Stone
Beautification efforts extend beyond the Terrace. Near the Castle arch lies the Dolphin Stone Garden, a small but historically significant space that is often over-looked.
Recent improvements have gently enhanced the garden, drawing attention to the remarkable story of the Dolphin Stone itself. At the centre is a stone inscribed in 1645 by the crew of the British ship Dolphin during their voyage to Europe. At that time, St Helena served as a mid-Atlantic crossroads for ships of all nations.
Long before the first official Post Office in 1815, this stone acted as a simple but effective postal exchange. Sailors would leave letters beneath it or at the island chapel, trusting that other vessels would collect and deliver them to their final destination.
To further highlight this unique feature, a discreet spotlight will be installed, allowing the historic inscription to be clearly seen and appreciate after dark.
While the garden is small, it is a meaningful place of connection that represents the island’s global maritime past. It enhancement reflects the importance of preserving St Helena’s heritage, ensuring that these stories are not lost over time. By continuing to care for and thoughtfully develop such sites, renewed awareness and appreciation of the island’s history can be fostered.
Repainting of the Church Lane Arch
The repainting of the Church Lane Arch forms part of ongoing efforts to enhance the visual character of Jamestown while celebrating its historic layout. Leading into Church Lane, a traditional rear access route behind St James’ Church, the arch marks an area that once played an important role in the town’s day-to-day life. Enhancements like this help present Jamestown as a place that values both its heritage and its appearance, creating a more inviting and visually appealing environment.
St Helena Tourism is confident that the community will take pride in and help protect these shared spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Photos
Newly installed benches and interpretative art installation at the Castle Terrace wall in Jamestown
The Dolphin Stone
#StHelena #AWalkThroughHistory #Installation
The public are advised that Safety Security & Home Affairs (SS&HA) Head Quarters at The Wharf, Jamestown will be closed on Monday 23 March 2026 from 12:00, to allow electrical works being carried out.
Normal business will resume on Tuesday 24 March from 08:30.
SS&HA staff would like to thank the public for their understanding and apologises for any inconvenience caused.
Reports have been received of rocks falling between Coal Yard and Needle’s Eye at the Jamestown Landing Steps. While the area remains accessible, swimmers are advised to enter the water at their own risk.
Safety Advice:
- Stay Vigilant: Please remain alert to your surroundings and watch for any further rock movement whilst in the area.
- Report Incidents: If you witness any further falls, please report them immediately to the Joint Emergency Services Control Centre (JESCC) by calling 22626 or 999.
A further assessment will be conducted next week.
HE Governor Nigel Phillips CBE has today announced, on behalf of Executive Council, an independent investigation into the causes of the St Helena Airport closure to commercial air services between 5 and 17 February 2026.
Intended to establish the root cause and learn lessons to prevent future recurrence, a selection exercise will be taken forward to identify a suitable, independent contractor to undertake the investigation. This will also determine the cost of the investigation. The contracting will be taken forward by St Helena Government.
The investigation will focus on understanding why all three fire tenders developed similar faults within a matter of weeks of each other. It is for investigators to decide who they wish to talk to and what they wish to examine but it is likely that they will want to review commissioning, usage, servicing and maintenance, consumables and other areas to build a comprehensive understanding.
It is important that we keep the scope proportionate and relevant, with a view to learning lessons before the delivery and commissioning of our new airport fire tenders, later in the year.
We are grateful to St Helena Airport Limited and other partners for their co-operation in this matter.
Once complete, we will consider the findings of the investigation before deciding if further work is necessary. A summary of the findings will be made public, ensuring transparency.
A further update will be issued once an investigator has been appointed and the timescales for reporting better understood.
Further to the previous public announcement regarding the lighting replacement works on Jacob’s Ladder, the project is now moving into its next stage. To safely accommodate the next phase of work, the entire length of Jacob’s Ladder will be closed from 20 March until further notice. Safety signage will be in place at all access points.
The public are kindly requested to follow all safety instructions and avoid entering any restricted areas.
The public are thanked for their cooperation.
SHG
18 March 2026
The MV Karoline is scheduled to arrive at James Bay on Thursday, 19 March at 18:00. Weather permitting, the vessel will berth alongside Rupert’s Jetty at first light on Friday 20 March.
During this time, Rupert’s Cargo Management Facility, the beach, the Jetty, and Rupert’s Bay will be placed under Access Level 3, meaning these areas will be restricted to authorised personnel only.
Access will remain restricted until all cargo operations are completed and the vessel has departed.
Once the vessel leaves, access will be reduced to Level 2, at which point only the Cargo Management Facility will remain restricted during normal working hours (08:00–17:00).
The beach, Jetty, and Rupert’s Bay will reopen to the public and may be accessed via the public walkway beginning at Liberation House or via the Ferry Service (charges apply).
After working hours, the Access Level reduces to Level 1, whereby vehicular access is allowed through the Facility.
St Helena Port Control thanks the public for their cooperation and understanding.
SHG
17 March 2026