This Is Guernsey

By Gemma Hockey

A leading architect has little faith that the States will act on the recommendations of an independent inquiry into planning.

Jamie Falla of Mooarc (pictured) said the Shepley report should be seen as a positive step towards a more efficient system.

‘I think it is a very good report; let’s hope it is not put in a dark cupboard,’ he said. Among other recommendations, consultant Chris Shepley wants planning to split from Environment and become an independent department with its own minister.  Mr Falla agreed.

‘But I do not believe the powers that be will have the courage, as with paid parking to fund a bus service.  It will be fudged – a few minor changes will be made, but not the important ones,’ he said.

He said he would welcome the change but did not think it would fundamentally alter the way his business worked.

‘We try to maintain a dialogue at all times with the department, but the delays hurt everyone,’ said Mr Falla.

Another Shepley recommendation is the appointment of a chief planning officer.

‘It certainly needs a chief planning officer and properly qualified professionals would also help the quality and long-term sustainability of the housing and commercial stock,’ said Mr Falla.

‘There are far too many people calling themselves architects who have little or no qualifications.

‘You would not go to an advocate or doctor if they were not qualified.’

Mr Falla agreed with the report’s criticism of the communication between departments and of the machinery of government.

He said the whole planning process needed a complete overhaul.

‘But it needs to be an inclusive thing, with the cooperation of all the tribes and other departments,’ he added.

David De Lisle, speaking as Environment minister last week, said that he supported the report, which outlined many of the issues he thought needed to be tackled, but he was more cautious over the recommendation to split planning.

The States will tomorrow vote on its department ministers.

Deputy De Lisle is the only current minister to have been left off Chief Minister Lyndon Trott’s wish list.

Article posted on 5th May, 2008 - 9.29am