THOSE behind alternative development visions for the east coast have welcomed the States’ decision to look further at the issue. The House decided to spend £150,000 on consultants to come up with scenarios for the area between Havelet Bay and St Sampson’s.
Long Port released its options last year. Chairman Charles Billson believed it had stimulated the debate.
‘It was a vote for common sense,’ he said.
‘I’m pleased that the States have had the courage to go ahead with this vital survey and report, despite the barracking they have had from the Belle Greve Bay protesters.’
A 6,500-signature petition was handed to Chief Minister Mike Torode from those against part of Long Port’s vision, which was to build a series of islands in the bay.
‘The survey and report will provide the essential background for the States to be able to make decisions on the future of the eastern seaboard.’
It is vital that the States can make informed decisions on land use to meet its future economic growth targets, added Mr Billson.
‘This is not just about Belle Greve Bay, that is a small part of what the overall proposals could be for the eastern seaboard and future of the community.’
He said that all Long Port had done was show the possibilities.
‘We provided a vision and stimulated debate and tried to encourage the States to look at its assets and make them sweat.’
Mr Billson said that he advised Deputy Lyndon Trott, before he was Treasury minister, to sweat the States’ assets and look at its ‘jewel in the crown’ - the St Peter Port waterfront and its immediate surroundings. That was three years ago when the pair were speakers at an Institute of Directors conference.
‘We have never said the entire menu in our vision was the beginning or the end, it’s not. It’s about public consultation, hearing not just what a vociferous minority want, but hearing what’s good for the whole of Guernsey.’
Architect Jamie Falla is one of the businessmen behind an alternative vision that has concentrated just on the Town seafront.
The group’s plans were made public last week.
‘It’s great news the States have sanctioned the investigation. Nothing could happen, but at least they will investigate it,’ he said.
The proposals are on display in the Beau Sejour foyer.
‘The whole point is that there are 60,000 stakeholders who need to be involved. Now, hopefully, with the investigation, the people of Guernsey will be asked what they feel.’
People had reacted positively to the group’s proposals, he added.
‘They say it seems like it’s a sensitive approach to utilising the harbour. There’s some concern about allowing more cars into St Peter Port. That’s not necessarily what I want to happen environmentally, but we have to balance everything.’
Article posted on 2nd April, 2007 - 12.00am
Loading ...
Most Commented: