Guernsey planning delays are 'outrageous' says expert

A Guernsey historic buildings expert has described delays in the planning process as "outrageous".

John McCormack said the backlog for protected or listed buildings was a serious problem and needed addressing.

Last year, Guernsey's Environment Department held a questionnaire asking how important it was to protect Guernsey's historic buildings.

The results showed a majority felt it was important but views were divided on the buildings that should qualify.

'Needs significant change'

The results also showed islanders' views were divided on the criteria that should be used when selecting which buildings should be designated as historic or protected.

The Environment Department said 125 people took part in the questionnaire.

Mr McCormack, La Societe Guernesiaise historic buildings section secretary, said he was happy with the department's response to the survey, but there were too many delays in the current system.

He said some people have to wait months for a decision on minor changes to their homes, something he described as "outrageous and in need of significant change".

Guernsey's Planning and Building Department said the results of the questionnaire supported the work the department was doing to manage and sustain the historic environment.