Development and Planning Authority (DPA) recently made statutory changes to the Island Development Plan (IDP). These changes come after public consultation — the city received 369 responses from across the community. The primary goal of this consultation was to gather valuable and diverse feedback about the IDP. This data is key to planning future land use and development across the island.
Keith Holland, the independent planning inspector who led the public inquiry process. He too was pleased with the community’s strong participation in the coalition’s consultation process. To finish up, Mr. McKee shared just how hopeful he was islanders will take the opportunity to get involved again. Now, he is putting their input into his careful consideration. His careful oversight facilitates a process where all of the feedback received is seriously considered as the DPA continues its work to develop the IDP.
One of the few changes that were made is that two additional sites were added to the list for the production of new affordable housing. The venue is School Lane Vinery, in La Grande Rue, St Martin. They’re available over the water at Selbourne Vinery on the Route des Coutanchez, St Peter Port. The inclusion of these sites is a testament to DPA’s continued dedication to meeting the community’s affordable housing needs.
The DPA assured that they will provide additional opportunities for public input on these new locations. That will take place after the general election in June. This participatory action research method brings residents to the center of conversations about their community and quality of life.
The DPA emphasized that finding “the right sites that people are happy with requires compromise.” This statement underscores the delicate balance between development needs and community preferences, which is central to the ongoing planning process.
