Guernsey affordable housing plans watered down

Those behind smaller scale developments could be made to contribute to a fund for affordable housing

Plans to force house builders to include affordable homes in property developments have been reduced.

Guernsey States initially said every development of at least five homes should include affordable properties.

But now they have said the rule only applies to estates of more than 20 homes.

Developments of 5 to 19 homes may instead be expected to pay into a fund to build affordable housing.

The Island Development Plan is expected to last for at least 10 years before being replaced.

In future anyone developing on a site that includes a derelict greenhouse will have to clear the greenhouse and any accompanying building

Deputies also agreed other changes to the plan including allowing a cafe at Stan Brouard, retail development at Oatlands Village and the removal of a field at Cobo from an area highlighted for development.

Politicians also agreed changes to areas set aside as a priority for agriculture, at least four acres to be available for light industrial use and the creation of a conservation area at Delancey.

A move to increase the maximum number of car parking spaces included in developments in built up areas was also approved.