Review of Guernsey planning rules delayed

Some developers suggested zoning derelict greenhouse sites for housing as part of the review

A review of Guernsey's planning rules will not be completed until after June 2025, deputies have heard.

President of the Development and Planning Authority (DPA) Victoria OIiver told a meeting of the States her committee would not be able to finish the work before a debate in April next year.

It comes after concerns were raised by some politicians the review would be delayed after a request by the DPA for more time to consider comments.

Mrs Oliver admitted she was "disappointed" it would not be completed this term but said she wanted it to be "done right, not rushed".

Review criticised

In a statement to deputies, Mrs Oliver said "next year, islanders will again have the opportunity to have their say on any amendments to the proposed changes to the Island Development Plan (IDP)."

The DPA earlier this year proposed changes to the IDP which included zoning six new sites for affordable housing.

But the review was criticised by some deputies for not being radical enough.

In a letter to the independent planning inspector overseeing the review, Mrs Oliver said the revised timeline would be as follows:

• Further analysis and stakeholder consultation to take place during September and November

• DPA to submit responses to the initial comments received in January 2025

• The inspector will publish the DPA's responses and invite comments on any significant changes to proposals in the same month

• DPA will respond to the further comments by May 2025