Friday 17 March 2023
With the support of the States of Guernsey, the Guernsey Housing Association (GHA) is developing revised plans that could see approximately 54 units of key worker accommodation developed at Domaine des Moulins, the former CI Tyres site, subject to planning permission.
The land was purchased by the GHA in August 2022. Previously, the expectation was that around 25 units would be included in the new development.
Scoping work has been undertaken to determine the feasibility of the higher density development from a Planning policy perspective as well as its financial viability and the conclusion was that it should be pursued. The GHA will work with its architects to submit a planning application for the revised design as soon as possible. Subject to planning permission, it is estimated that the development will be complete in early 2026. While this is a delay of approximately 12 months compared with the original plan, this is considered worthwhile for the prize of achieving more than double the number of homes for key workers.
Vic Slade, Chief Executive, Guernsey Housing Association said:
'There is currently huge pressure to provide more affordable housing, so it makes sense to maximise use of the space on the site to provide as many homes as we can, whilst making sure that we protect design and space standards. We recognise the urgent need to deliver this much needed key worker accommodation, so we're pursuing the revised development as a top priority.'
Deputy Peter Roffey, President of the Committee for Employment & Social Security said:
'Having supported the purchase of this site last year, to help address the severe shortage in key worker housing that we're experiencing, I'm really pleased that there is the potential to more than double the number of homes that this site can provide. This decision was a no brainer, as it also delivers better value for money for the States.'
