Friday 16 January 2015
Guernsey Press Enquiry:
In regard to the below comments, made last in August year, can the department please advise as to the status of the review, its outcomes, whether it has contacted retailers and what the time frame is for any changes which need to be made.
If the review has not been undertaken, can the department please state why not and if it has any plans to undertake a review.
"TOWN retailer Blacks is set to launch a fight for its signage and appeal against planners ruling it 'garish' and out of keeping with St Peter Port.
The case has attracted significant public criticism, but Environment planning director Jim Rowles said the department was sticking to its guns.
He also revealed it planned to review other signs around Town, although he stressed this was not about 'being nasty to business".
Environment Department Response:
A review of signage within the Centre of St Peter Port was carried out at the end of 2014. This included a walkabout with the Town Constables and a St Peter Port Deputy.
Generally, previous concerns have been resolved in discussion with the retailers concerned and no significant new issues were identified.
In the case of the Blacks signs, revised proposals were granted planning permission and the projecting sign on Le Pollet has since been replaced with a more traditional hanging sign, suspended from a bracket. The high level sign to the rear, facing the Quay is also to be adapted to reduce its impact on the appearance of the building.
The Environment Department is pleased that it has been possible to arrive at a mutually satisfactory solution which will help preserve the character of the historic core of our Town whilst meeting the legitimate needs of the retail occupier for advertising of their business. The Department is grateful to the applicant for agreeing to adapt its corporate style in a way which fits appropriately with the distinctive character of St Peter Port.
Contact Information:
Jim Rowles, Director of Planning
Environment Department
Tel: 717200
