A PLANNING application to build apartments on a private car park that contains around 60 spaces at Havre des Pas has drawn criticism from Islanders concerned that the area has become “very built-up”, with “already strained” parking.
The site, on Green Street opposite Andium’s Edinburgh House development, used to provide spaces for both private renters and those staying at the former Hotel de la Plage – and later for those living in the apartments that the hotel became and others in the area.
Earlier this year, Seymour Hotels Group marketing manager Oliver Appleyard revealed that the land had been transferred from La Plage Hotel Ltd to another Seymour Group company, with the intention to “develop it separately as residential rental accommodation for the local market”.
An application, now live, seeks to create 26 apartments – made up of 18 one-bedroom and eight two-bedroom units – as well as a “podium garden”, play space and a roof garden.
It would also see the construction of a basement car park with 36 electric-car parking spaces, five motorbike spaces, and 60 bicycle spaces. The basement level would also contain a new substation and storage areas.
As of yesterday afternoon, the plans had received around 30 public comments, with several Islanders raising concerns about the scheme.
One said: “There has been too much development in Havre des Pas in recent years. Surely a public car park would benefit more people?”
Another commented: “It is already a very built-up area and parking is now a major problem in St Helier.”
One comment stated: “This project will put greater pressure on the already strained local availability of parking for residents and visitors alike.”
St Helier Constable Simon Crowcroft recently said that a lack of parking around the Havre des Pas area could have an impact on both residents and businesses, particularly in the summer months.
However, he has also said that the Seymour Hotel Group “have a right to develop that site”.
