Accidental vote costs island £10m

The site has been under discussion for more than 10 years

Politicians in Jersey have decided to spend £10m on a new park because of an accidental vote.

After more than half a day of debate, plans to spend the money on the Millennium Park were passed by just one vote, with 23 in favour and 22 against.

Senator Alan Maclean said he had meant to vote against the proposal but papers on his desk meant he had pushed the wrong button.

He was told the mistaken vote on the park in St Helier had to stand.

There have been more than 10 years of discussions in the States about what to do with the site in Gas Place, which is currently a car park.

'Entirely appropriate'

The park had an estimated cost of almost £30m in 1998, but plans stalled several times because of a lack of money.

The latest plan which has just been approved is a revision of those original plans.

Deputy Geoff Southern, who backed the plan, told BBC News: "It is entirely appropriate that we should be putting this money into this initiative.

"It will enormously improve the quality of life for people in the area."

Bernie Manning, from Millennium Town Park group, said: "Surveys have proved that we need an open space and a play area for senior citizens and young children."

Mr Mclean was unavailable for comment.