Environment Review - Spring 2009

The Section had concerns over two States policies on two major topics in the latter part of last year – Housing Needs forecasts and the Energy from Waste plant. The Minister for Housing had been invited to attend a meeting but he asked the Head of the Statistics Unit to explain the basis of forecasts of 'Housing Needs for the Over 55s'. The high response to the Island-wide questionnaire had ensured that the figures were reliable and could be safely used to predict demand. The meeting, however, was not convinced that the age of 55 was a realistic point on which to base future demand.

A similarly investigative meeting was held with the Recycling Officer, John Rive, who brought Will Gardener with him to discuss the Island's waste problem. Despite the explanation given for the proposed Waste Disposal plant, doubts remained in many members' minds about the validity of the method chosen and the justification for such a large facility. There appeared to be a conflict between a deliberately large plant that would be able to deal with partial breakdowns and the States policy of increasing the amount of waste re-cycling. Added to this uncertainty was the fact that the decision on size had been based on the assumption of continued increase in population over the period up to 2035. The Société's Executive Committee authorised that all States members should receive an Open Letter expressing concerns.

Section Members were given a preview by David Seymour of a plan to re-develop the Watersplash. While sympathetic improvement was necessary and would be an attraction for visitors, it was feared that the increased size would set a precedent for future re-developments and would be likely to prevent our unconditional endorsement of any unchanged planning application.

The first Public Inquiry in the Island was held over five days into the plans for the Waterfront. As presented to the Inspectors, the plans now feature a lowered main Square and a Winter Garden with views across St Aubin's Bay. Our major objection was to the loss of half the area of Jardins de la Mer and consequent total redesign. This need was explained as being caused by the need for eight lanes of traffic where the west end of the lowered road emerged in the area to the south of the Grand Hotel. We argued that forecast traffic levels did not justify two of the lanes. The Inspector's Report has not yet been published but the Minister has said that he is minded to agree the plans, provided the financial arrangements are adequately guaranteed.

While there is still no decision about the Plèmont Holiday Camp site, an Inquiry into the retrospective planning application for the increased height of the Royal Yacht Hotel was deferred so that architects could discuss what could be done in the face of the fait accompli.

On a more positive note, the Minister has accepted a Report on 'Valuing the Island's Heritage' which includes the recommendation that the Société should take the lead in exploring with the other islands of the archipelago whether and how to progress an application for designation as a World Heritage Site. A meeting of members from interested groups from each Island is about to be held.

R Anthony – Chairman