AN appeal against plans to build a terrace at a coastal pizzeria and stabilise the surrounding cliff face has been lost.
Islander Marcus Stone’s formal objection to planning permission granted to the owners of Portelet Bay Café was rejected by Assistant Environment Minister Jess Perchard.
Mr Stone argued that the plans, which the Planning Committee originally approved by three votes to two, would have a detrimental effect on the area, and would impact on parking and the surrounding environment which forms part of the Coastal National Park.
He also believed that the Planning Committee demonstrated bias and a lack of consideration towards those who had objected to the application.
The plans received 163 public comment on the Planning website, some of which were in favour while others raised objections.
Planning inspector Sue Bell recommended that the appeal be refused and the terrace be allowed on the basis that the plans qualified as an exception to the general presumption against development that is set out in the Island Plan Policy NE6, which gives protection to Coastal National Park land.
Alexandra Ostroumoff, director of Portelet Bay Café, said: ‘Following the appeal hearing on 13 October, we have endured a long wait but are delighted that policy NE6 has been understood, resulting in a successful outcome.
‘Considering the impact of the appeal personally, as well as time delays and substantial added costs due to the process, we are grateful that we have been granted three years from the date of the minister’s decision to commence the work.’
She added: ‘The Islandwide support for our plans, including from many close neighbours, has been hugely appreciated.
‘We are now concentrating on the reopening of the restaurant on 24 March and are looking forward to a successful season ahead.’
In her report published on the Planning Department’s website, Mrs Bell said: ‘I conclude that the proposal is compliant with the requirement of Policy NE6 in satisfying the criteria for an exception to the general presumption against development set by that policy.’
No condition has been placed on the number of tables on the new terrace or the type of events which can be held there – despite calls from Mr Stone for such restrictions.
The materials used to help stabilise the cliff face must be approved by the Planning Department before the work goes ahead.
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