Housing plans progress after flood defence design begins

A new housing development in Guernsey is one step forward to getting off the ground as the States is set to begin design work on flood defences.

Guernsey Housing Association (GHA) said it can now move forward with a master plan for the Parc le Lacheur site near The Bridge, with a planning application for 150 homes due to be submitted at the end of the year.

GHA deputy chief executive Lisa de Kooker said the flood defence work is critical to the future of the former vinery and plans included a mix of private and affordable housing.

The Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure (E&I) said the flood defence plans should "unlock" other development opportunities in the area.

This includes the former Data Park site, which is also owned by the GHA and the privately owned Leale's Yard site.

E&I President Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez said: "Not only does it provide protection for new homes, it provides protection to existing homes, businesses and infrastructure along the Bridge Quay."

The project forms part of the States' Strategic Delivery Framework for allocated housing sites in St Sampson and the Vale.

Employment & Social Security President Deputy Peter Roffey said plans for the Parc le Lacheur site were just the beginning.

"I think there are other announcements to be made over the days and weeks ahead," he said.

"So we can be very positive about housing in the next State's Assembly."

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