Tuesday 28 March 2023
The Review of the Land Planning and Developments (Exemptions) Ordinance, 2007, Policy Letter is due to be considered at the States meeting commencing on 29th March.
If approved by the States, this will immediately increase the number of types of development which will be exempt from requiring planning permission, resulting in a reduction of the number of people who will need to engage with the planning process.
If approved, the number of exemptions will increase from 64 to 132, and amongst other exemptions, will include the installation of an electric vehicle charging point, the installation of external render, the erection of a small shed for growing on agricultural land and changes of use, all under certain conditions outlined in the Ordinance.
The States approved the policy intention of a number of exemptions in 2021, however, during the legislative drafting process, a number of further amendments were identified to ensure consistency, which will be considered by the States.
Deputy Victoria Oliver, President of the Development & Planning Authority, said:
"Our Committee has a challenging job of balancing development whilst preserving and enhancing what makes Guernsey a great place to live. By proposing these exemptions, we're determined to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy to make it easier for individuals and businesses to make small alterations. At the same time, we want to protect and preserve the island's heritage, look, feel and culture, which is why the planning process is so important for more significant changes.
"By removing this red-tape, not only will this make it easier for members of the public to make small alterations, but as less applications come through to the Planning Service, we can deal more efficiently with islanders' applications."
