Robert Luetkehaus wants to build four one-bedroom, nine two-bedroom and two three-bedroom properties on the site – on the corner of Plat Douet Road and Green Road – but the proposal has drawn fierce opposition from residents.
The plans also feature a new pedestrian footpath running opposite the western end of FB Fields, a 32-bay bicycle store and a new bus shelter on Green Road.
But the Planning Department refused the plans, saying the development would have an overbearing impact on neighbouring properties, would be too dense and would be out of character with the surrounding area.
Mr Luetkehaus subsequently lodged an appeal against the department’s decision and Philip Staddon, an independent UK-based planning inspector, has been appointed to assess the proposals.
The inspector will receive written representations from those for and against the plans before submitting a report and recommendation to Environment Minister John Young about whether or not the application should be approved. The minister will then make a decision on the development.
According to developers, if approved, the new complex will be called ‘Les Soeurs’ [the sisters], in a nod to the site’s former occupants.
In June 2018, the last four sisters to serve Beaulieu Convent School – with a combined 180 years of service – retired to the Order of the Immaculate Conception Saint-Méen-Le-Grand’s Mother House in Brittany.
The house was sold by St Méen Ltd to Les Soeurs Jersey Ltd in January last year for £1.1 million.
