LEALE’S YARD businesses could find a new lease of life with alternative premises at Guernsey Coal. The company is refurbishing its La Hure Mare, Vale, site and has applied for permission for change of use of the space freed up by alterations in its operation.
Managing director David Meeks said the business was moving with the times, but would not be closing down.
‘Now we are bringing in solid fuels from an associate yard in the UK and this change of supply pattern has freed up a large area that was previously used for storage,’ he said.
‘We are following ‘Commerce and Employment minister’ Stuart Falla’s lead in a way, because he said that all businesses should be looking at freeing up any spare capacity for other businesses to use.
‘We are not experiencing problems. We have a long-term commitment to the solid-fuel industry in Guernsey.’
Guernsey Coal met planners on Monday to stress the urgency of being granted permission for a change of use.
Mr Meeks said he had been inundated with requests from potential tenants who must quit Leale’s Yard by the end of the year.
‘This would not be just for the benefit of ourselves, but also for small businesses which are experiencing problems finding industrial premises in Guernsey,’ he said.
‘We want to encourage Planning to give us all the assistance we need to achieve our goal as soon as possible.’
The 2.6-acre Guernsey Coal site should be ready for companies to start moving in by January.
A traffic impact assessment was undertaken in response to residents’ concerns about increased noise and activity from more businesses.
Mr Meeks said that despite the extra activity the site would become a better neighbour.
‘The finished product would be light years ahead of what we have had here until now,’ he said.
‘It used to be dirty and noisy, but it will be quieter because all the buildings will be insulated and there will be virtually no outside storage any more.
‘We could put the lighter industry nearer to where there are houses and the heavier ones out of the way.’
The buildings’ concrete frames are being repaired and electrical, water and drainage systems are being upgraded at present.
Deputy Ivan Rihoy said he was fully supportive of any scheme that released space for small industry in Guernsey. ‘It’s extremely difficult for businesses to find affordable premises on the island and this is potentially a great location,’ he said.
‘Guernsey has to look after its small industries, as well as the finance industry, because they might grow into larger companies which benefit the island’s economy.
‘This is the right area and the right type of development.’
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