PERMISSION has been given to demolish derelict buildings at Overdale, potentially paving the way for new health facilities to be built there.
The government announced yesterday that it had received a planning permit for demolition work to take place at the site, and that feasibility studies for its proposed multi-site solution – which would include input from clinicians – were under way.
The previous government’s £800 million single-site ‘Our Hospital’ project at Overdale was scrapped following a review led by current Infrastructure Minister Tom Binet, which concluded that it was ‘inappropriate’ and ‘unaffordable’.
But ministers have not ruled out building some health infrastructure at Overdale as part of its multi-site approach.
The government said having planning permission before making any decisions about what to do would enable construction work to start as quickly as possible.
However, that permission has been accompanied by a set of obligations, including requiring the Infrastructure and Health ministers to:
-
Find a new home for the Jersey Bowling Club.
-
Contribute to the West Park Surface Water Separation Scheme.
-
Take steps to ensure highways access, bus infrastructure, parking and a travel plan.
Deputy Binet said: ‘The signature of the Planning Obligation Agreement and the release of planning permission means we can carry out demolition works on derelict buildings at Overdale, and we create the opportunity to move as quickly as possible once we have agreed the appropriate way forward with Health colleagues and concluded feasibility studies.’
He added: ‘I believe we can proceed with schemes for healthcare services that are appropriate and affordable, are more sympathetic to the surrounding areas and that deliver the appropriate supporting infrastructure.
‘This signifies our absolute commitment to moving forward with development at Overdale, as part of our plans for cost-effective and high-quality healthcare facilities.’
