Independent planning inspector Neil McGurk concluded that the appeal – jointly lodged by five residents – should be dismissed. Environment Minister Steve Luce upheld that conclusion.
In his report to the minister Mr McGurk said: ‘I am mindful that the proposed development not only seeks to bring a vacant building into use, but serves to preserve a heritage asset and support economic development, all within the built-up area.’
The decision on the appeal, however, was subject to a number of conditions. They include that the development of the property must begin within three years and no machinery can be operated or retail sales carried on outside of stipulated hours. A car park must also be built before the building can be used as a workshop and showroom. Meanwhile, a developer has won an appeal allowing it to go-ahead with constructing a four-bedroom house in St Brelade.
