A HOUSING development of 42 homes for over-55s in St John has been given planning approval.
Environment Minister Steve Luce gave the scheme at St Joseph’s Care Home the go-ahead after a planning appeal.
Plans by LV Care Group to build 42 units of sheltered housing – 38 one-bed apartments and four two-bed apartments – on St John’s Road, were rejected by the Planning Committee earlier this year.
The application received 166 public comments with concerns raised about the loss of existing trees and the impact of construction work.
The applicant subsequently appealed and the case was reviewed by independent planning inspector Philip Staddon, who recommended it for approval.
He pointed to strong support shown for the principle of the development and the pressing need for extra housing for older people in Jersey. Mr Staddon added that the proposal aligned with the policy of ‘right-sizing’, while offering high-quality accommodation for those in later life and simultaneously helping to free up larger homes for family use.
The planning inspector found that, on balance, the proposed scheme did not amount to overdevelopment and was in line with the policies of the Island Plan.
Deputy Luce agreed with the recommendation and granted permission, subject to conditions and a planning obligation agreement.
He said: “This decision reflects the importance of providing high-quality housing options for older Islanders. The development at St Joseph’s Care Home will help meet a clear need for sheltered accommodation, supporting our policy of rightsizing and ensuring that people can live comfortably and independently in later life. It also demonstrates that, with careful design and planning, we can deliver new homes without compromising the character of our island.”
