States want to 'maintain momentum' on development

The States of Guernsey said it aimed to start demolition within 12 months of purchasing Leale's Yard

Officials are hoping to progress through the demolition of a "long-awaited" regeneration project as quickly as possible.

The States of Guernsey purchased the majority of the Leale's Yard site in St Sampson in August, with the Co-op retaining a small section of the site for housing.

The government said it was seeking expressions of interest for demolition of the site, with the aim of starting within 12 months of purchasing the land.

Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, president of the Policy and Resources Committee, said while the development consisting of housing and commercial units would not happen overnight, the government wanted to get the project moving ahead.

De Sausmarez said: "Leale's Yard is a strategically important site, so maintaining momentum is essential."

The States said the mixed-used plans would remain as previously established in the development framework for the site.

However, it said the overall layout and design would change from the outline planning permission already in place.

The States said further expressions of interest would follow in relation to master planning for the wider area.

It added the "long-awaited development" would bring regeneration to the north of the island.