Legal action considered on derelict Old Quarter

The States is considering using legal powers to encourage owners to improve empty and derelict buildings in Guernsey's Old Quarter.

Deputy Neil Inder, President of Development and Planning, told the States the committee is exploring whether Land Amenity Improvement Notices could be used in areas such as Mill Street.

These could require property owners to carry out work to improve buildings, with enforcement action possible if they failed to comply.

The move comes amid ongoing concerns about the number of vacant units and the condition of some properties in parts of the area.

Speaking to the BBC after addressing the States, Deputy Neil Inder said the Development & Planning Authority had identified several neglected commercial units around Mill Street and the Old Quarter.

He warned their condition was dragging down the wider area and said officers had flagged "three or four" properties in a similar state to St Margaret's Lodge, which earlier this year was made subject to an improvement notice.

He also signalled a tougher overall stance on derelict sites, urging owners to "act like responsible landlords" by refurbishing the buildings or selling them on to someone who will.

Local constable Di Mitchell said the area still had "potential", but would need a different approach to attract new tenants.

Some units, she noted, remain empty due to high rents or the cost of refurbishing buildings in poor condition, making support measures a key part of any plan.

She suggested offering incentives to help businesses get established, including the possibility of reduced business rates in their first year.

Mitchell also said the area could benefit from a broader mix of uses, including space for artists, hospitality and independent businesses, rather than relying solely on traditional retail.

Community engagement is also likely to form part of the plans for this part of town, with drop-in sessions proposed to gather ideas from residents and local businesses.

David Savident, development manager for the Mill Street Community Café, said he wanted to see the Old Quarter redeveloped "with thought and process" to reflect its character and called for more art shops, workshops, small bistros and new residential space to bring life back into the area.

He described Mill Street as "a bit of a Cinderella" that could "rise again", praising the strong community spirit among existing traders and early ideas for small festivals and events.

David Said he would like to see incentives such as reduced business rates for new businesses, saying smaller units face high running costs and that footfall dropped sharply during recent roadworks, highlighting the need to attract people back into the area, especially in the evenings.

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