
19/08/2025
Tomorrow we will be heading out on the 2nd Visite Royale of the year, and this time it is the turn of the parish of St Clement, and this will be the last one overseen by the current Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq who is scheduled to retire in October.
(Picture ref: JEP August 2025)
The Visite Royale is a centuries-old tradition in Jersey, Channel Islands, where the Royal Court conducts an official inspection of a parish, typically once every six years. It is a formal and ceremonial event with deep historical roots, dating back to Norman times when maintaining public roads and pathways was a legal responsibility overseen by officials like the Viscount.
What Happens During a Visite Royale?
1. Inspection of Parish Accounts and Infrastructure: The Royal Court reviews the parish’s financial records and inspects public roads and footpaths.
2. Addressing Encroachments: Any encroachments or obstructions from private land onto public roads are examined. Property owners may be held accountable and required to make corrections.
3. Community Involvement: The Connétable (head of the parish), Roads Committee, and other parish officials participate. Residents may also be involved, especially if their properties border public roads.
4. Legal Authority: The Court has the power to issue fines or orders for repairs if issues are found.
The tradition stems from medieval Norman law, where officials were tasked with ensuring roads remained clear and usable. The Visite Royale evolved into a "cour ambulatoire" - a traveling court - where judges and officials would ride through the parish, observe conditions, and make rulings on the spot.
The Visite Royals still holds relevance today. It's practical purpose is to ensure that public infrastructure is maintained and holding property owners accountable for encroachments. It also reinforces the connection between Jersey’s legal system and its Norman heritage.