Bad planning turning town into "Gotham City" - campaigners

Monday 13 April 2015

The latest plans for a major development in town have led campaigners to accuse the States of aiming to “cram residents into boxy flats like sardines”.

Save Jersey’s Heritage say that the plans for 180 units in disused warehouses at the back of the Co-op Grand Marche are overwhelming, and that the old granite warehouses should be retained.

The developers want to redevelop the site to create 183 homes – mostly flats, but with some houses – as well as four commercial units, a community facility and 200 parking spaces.

The development proposals come just weeks after plans for almost 300 homes on the neighbouring Jersey Gas site were approved despite protests by residents and politicians.

But Save Jersey’s Heritage say it’s a step too far.

Their President, Marcus Binney, said: “We are not opposed to some housing on the site but the scale of what is proposed is overwhelming.

“The imposing granite warehouses and associated brick warehouses should be retained and there must be a lively mix of uses and house types.

“It is starting to look as if the aim of the States for St Helier is to cram residents into boxy flats like sardines.

“Protecting the countryside is essential and it makes good sense to encourage town-living. New projects, however, should demonstrate an appreciation of their surroundings – and we are not convinced that this one does.”