JERSEY’s planning service will “continue to evolve”, according to the Environment Minister – who has said improvements made in 2024 have laid “a strong foundation for the year ahead”.
Deputy Steve Luce made the comments in the final Planning Performance Statistics Report for 2024, which showed a 6% increase in the number of applications determined in comparison to 2023.
Additionally, the percentage of applications determined within the service’s target timeframes (eight weeks for minor applications and 13 weeks for major applications) peaked at 85% in the third quarter after a low of 67% at the start of the year.
The report also highlighted a number of changes that have been made as part of a drive to improve the planning service, including the introduction of regular case review meetings to help determine applications faster, as well as in-person daily advice now available from duty planning and building officers at the new government building in Union Street.
Writing in the foreword of the report, Deputy Luce said the annual increase in determined applications was “a testament to the hard work and dedication of the planning team”.
“Looking forward, the work accomplished in 2024 lays a strong foundation for the year ahead. The planning service will continue to evolve, focusing on maintaining efficiency, improving consistency, and supporting a growing housing supply to meet the diverse needs of Islanders,” he added.
“By building on the insights and successes of the past year, we are poised to deliver even greater outcomes in 2025, ensuring that our planning system remains fit for the future.”
