Ferry frustrations and housing concerns in Gorey

Residents in Jersey's Grouville and St Martin districts cite rising business costs and housing unaffordability as key concerns ahead of the 2026 general election, with a new ferry contract drawing particular criticism [1]. Tracey Benn, owner of Café Louise in Gorey harbour, said the flat freight rate introduced with the new ferry contract has increased her wholesale costs [1]. A tray of eggs she paid £3.60 for three years ago now costs £7.90, while a case of bacon has risen from £29 to £39 [1]. “If I had to put my prices up in the café... I wouldn't have any customers,” Benn said [1]. Elaine Davis, a St Martin resident, echoed frustrations with the ferry service, stating, “I really wish we hadn't changed from Condor... I feel it's a step backwards” [1]. The island's transport system, which includes 124,737 registered vehicles, relies heavily on sea and air links for leaving the island [2]. Housing affordability is a parallel crisis. Debbie Krupski, 47, described Gorey as “the most wonderful place” but said she cannot afford to stay [1]. “Unless there is some miracle-changing event, I won't be able to stay here. There is no way I can afford it,” she stated [1]. The reliance on ferry transport for goods is a structural issue for island economies, a challenge mirrored in other island nations. For instance, Rosslare Europort in Ireland has seen a six-fold increase in direct weekly sailings to continental Europe since 2019, partly to bypass post-Brexit congestion [4]. This expansion highlights how maritime contracts and routing are critical to cost and supply chain stability for island communities [4]. The Government of Jersey has been approached for comment on the ferry contract and cost concerns [1].