Controversial Port Galots scheme rethink

Thursday 01 January 2015

Ministers have responded to the the huge wave of public criticism by asking developers behind the Ports Galots scheme to rethink their plans.

The proposal for a new maritime hub including flats, an HQ for the Sea Cadets and other facilities, have been strongly opposed by local businesses and the public. The scheme, which is supported by the Government, will use the land in between South Pier and Victoria Pier.

The Minister for Transport and Technical Services, Deputy Eddie Noel, said: "The application, which outlined a development to deliver sufficient revenues to fund the construction of the community facilities in line with the wishes of the States, has attracted a significant number of comments to Planning and Building Services and has been the subject of much discussion in the traditional media and on social media. 

"The project team is considering how best to address issues raised, either by amending the current application or, if the amendments are significant, by submitting a revised application.

"The amendments will specifically address issues relating to boat storage for the rowing club and parking on and around the site, but will also consider the other matters raised, including the nature and scale of the development being confirmed by the Health and Safety Inspectorate as permissible under hazard planning guidance."

Vicky Boarder of the Fresh Fish Company, based close to the proposed site, has been leading the campaign against the development, urging islanders to make their views heard. Concerns have been raised about the effect on local businesses and fishermen, as well as the safety of locating residential units close to the fuel depot. Her campaign has attracted the support of celebrity chef, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall.

Deputy Noel added, "In view of the strength of public opinion, I have asked the project team to review the proposals to see how they can be adapted to address the points raised in the submissions to planning."

However, the deputy also reiterated the Government’s support for the concept of the scheme, "I remain convinced the site is the appropriate location for a centre for the Sea Cadets and other maritime users as part of a mixed development, that delivers the community facilities through planning gain from the commercial elements."