Some are saying that the planning process could do more to help economic growth, and the current planning system is blocking private investment and doesn’t sufficiently support local industry.
Before providing evidence to balance this opinion, it is worth reminding ourselves on the purpose of the planning process and the role it plays in the island.
The planning system has existed in Jersey for many years, and continues to protect the island’s natural and built-up environment. Without it, and with the uncontrolled development of the island, Jersey would lose much of its unique character, and a free-for-all would ensue. It is the responsibility of the planning system to positively manage the environment for the current generation and leave it in a better state for future generations.
At the planning department we take this responsibility very seriously, and balance complex social, economic and environment factors when making decisions. All applicants want an approval, all objectors want a refusal. The only real certainty in planning is that we always upset someone, and this is why many planning decisions are made “on balance”.
We think the planning process is an immense enabler to the island and to the local economy. 85% of applications received are approved and most of these are progressed to a decision within our 13 week target. There are currently approx. 1500 homes and 250,000 square feet of commercial space that have been given approval, and building work has yet to start. The construction value of the residential element alone is estimated at between £150 and £250 Million, and the commercial construction value is around £100M.
Like most businesses, we know we can improve and make our operations more effective and efficient. We are implementing a new IT system that will improve the performance of the department and deliver a much better online experience for our customers and the general public. For smaller applications we are introducing an eight week target, and we are going to be offering a ‘free go’ for the resubmission of schemes following refusal. Early in the New Year we will consult on a new ‘merits based’ planning appeals system that will provide more fairness than the current system.
The planning system should exist to help the island prosper, but it also must protect and enhance our unique Island environment for current and future generations.
Andy Scate CEO, Department of the Environment
It’s testament to the commitment of a locally-owned development company, Le Masuriers Limited, that the approval of J1, their major scheme in the town centre, doesn’t mean their plans for their Bath Street scheme have been put on hold.
Over Christmas, I read up on the business benefits of corporate social responsibility or putting it another way being moral in business (exciting times!).
As you are probably aware, Social Security rules have changed this year for employers of staff earning more than £3,778 per month (equivalent to £45,336 per year).