Green light for 42 new sheltered homes

Planning permission has been granted for 42 sheltered homes for islanders aged over 55.

The decision for the site at St Joseph's Care Home on St John's Road in St Helier, comes after an appeal overturned a refusal by the Planning Committee in July.

The application was reviewed by independent planning inspector Philip Staddon who recommended approval as there was strong support for the principle of the development and an urgent need for extra care housing for older people in Jersey.

Minister for the Environment, Steve Luce, agreed and said his decision "reflects the importance of providing high-quality housing options for older islanders".

Mr Staddon said the proposal fits with the policy of "rightsizing," which aims to provide high-quality homes for later life while freeing up larger properties for families.

The inspector admitted the appeal involved complex planning judgments, particularly because the site sits within the green backdrop zone which protects the local landscape.

He concluded the scheme would not harm the area's landscape character.

Luce said: "The development at St. Joseph's Care Home will help meet a clear need for sheltered accommodation, supporting our policy of rightsizing and ensuring that people can live comfortably and independently in later life.

"It also demonstrates that, with careful design and planning, we can deliver new homes without compromising the character of our island."

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