The Environment Minister has said Jersey’s planning system is “more responsive” and “better equipped” following efforts to enhance it in recent years – but what progress do the latest figures actually show?

Deputy Steve Luce has stated that, while work to modernise processes and bolster the service’s capacity will continue, the reforms delivered so far represent “an important step”.

The drive to improve the system has included the introduction of regular case review meetings to help determine applications faster, as well as improvements in communication and industry engagement.

Express took a look at a recently published planning report highlighting some of changes..

The proportion of applications determined within target timeframes increased from 52% in 2021 and 53% in 2022 to 72% in 2023, rising further to 76% in 2024 and 85% in 2025.

There was also a 22% rise in pre-application advice provided between 2024 and 2025.

Last year the department validated 1,124 applications (a reduction of 71 compared with 2024), comprising 254 major and 870 minor applications.

Approval rates consistently ranged between 87% and 90% in 2025, reflecting an upward trend throughout the year and an improvement on the year before.

Since opening the new government office in Union Street, the planning duty officer service has recorded 716 customer interactions.

A monthly planning newsletter now reaches more than 200 subscribers.

The reforms delivered to date represent an important step in strengthening the planning system so it can continue to support sustainable development and the island’s long-term needs

Environment Minister Steve Luce

In a statement, Deputy Luce said: “Planning shapes where islanders live, work and invest, and it is essential that the system is fair, efficient and trusted.

“Over the past two years, we have rebuilt relationships, modernised our processes and strengthened the capability of the service.”

The minister described the current planning system as “more transparent, more responsive, and better equipped to support the sustainable, high‑quality future our island deserves”.

“Planning plays a central role in shaping the island’s future,” he added.

“The reforms delivered to date represent an important step in strengthening the planning system so it can continue to support sustainable development and the island’s long-term needs.”