AT least half of the units in future residential developments at the Waterfront will need to be allocated to first-time buyers, the States Assembly has unanimously decided.
Members voted by 44-0 to support a proposition by Deputy Helen Miles that 50% of homes in future projects should be allocated to those buying property for the first time, using assisted-purchase schemes.
A further 15% of units will have to be allocated to those seeking to “right-size” their homes as part of the move.
Deputy Miles said she was fulfilling a manifesto pledge to address the housing crisis, adding that she was encouraged by the passion shown by Waterfront residents and the government’s “can-do attitude about what has historically been a tricky issue”.
“This government appears to have the appetite to grip the Waterfront development firmly, once and for all, and provide clear direction to the States of Jersey Development Company,” she said.
Housing Minister Sam Mézec said: “This proposition is a good opportunity to set a clear signal of intent, different to what existed previously, and trying to give hope back to those people who up to this point you can’t blame for having not felt much [hope].”
