MORE investment in St Peter Port could follow the redevelopment of some central restaurants and bars. ‘If potential investors see what is going on and that it is coming from the indigenous population, other investors will see it’s working and the wheels will start turning,’ said Ian Walker, who has overseen the redevelopment of Dix-Neuf and the Prince of Wales.

‘I’m very positive about the buzz. The High Street is getting better and better and there are some great brands in Town.

‘The potential to attract high spenders and the short-break market and maintain the quality of the island is very possible and very positive.’

Mr Walker was delighted at the response to Dix-Neuf, which recently reopened. It has expanded next door into the former Maison Carre premises.

‘It’s taken off in a far busier and more successful way than I would ever have dreamed of,’ he said.

‘It has really turned out well; I love it and it’s exactly what I wanted.’

Mr Walker has also been involved with the massive renovation project at the Prince of Wales, now predominantly a fish restaurant and bar.

‘I wanted to create something very unique,’ said Mr Walker.

‘It’s a landmark building; we wanted to do something that is sympathetic and high quality and we spent a lot of money on it.’

Vernon Etherington, former chairman of the St Peter Port Traders’ Association, said that the new Dix-Neuf was a wonderful asset for Town.

But he feared there was a limited number of places where similar redevelopment could take place.

‘We are creating the economic environment to attract people.

‘The finance sector is buoyant and so is the retail sector,’ he said. ‘Because of the new buildings [around the island] we have the new offices to attract new business and it’s out there.’