Vale Avenue site could be a temporary green space
GUERNSEY ELECTRICITY could turn the demolished Vale Avenue site into a temporary open space for the public, if planning permission is granted.
Current permissions allowed Guernsey Electricity only to demolish the derelict houses and flatten the site to existing levels. But after consultation with the public it might apply for permission to turn the site into an area the community can use before finalising long-term plans.
Guernsey Electricity’s chief executive Alan Bates, said: ‘We are restricted by the terms of the planning permission and land use as to what we can do with the site.
‘However, in the mid- to long-term, as the business changes and technology evolves, we do plan to make the best use of the Vale Avenue site for our customers, the local community and Guernsey.
‘We have to balance the short-term options for the site, which may include creating an open community green space or similar, against future strategic requirements for the whole Vale power station site.
‘Prior to applying for any future planning permission, we will engage with the local community to discuss the potential options.’
Some residents and business owners in the area have called for a community space, including parking or gardens.
‘Both of these could be options for the short-term future following public consultation and planning permission,’ said Mr Bates. ‘At the moment, unfortunately, with the current planning permissions, both of these options would involve a change of use for the site.’
Guernsey Electricity recently installed 330 solar panels on the power station roof and, although panels might be unsuitable for the site, a renewable energy source could be installed if deemed beneficial.
‘Sustainable local renewable energy is certainly a growing focus for Guernsey Electricity as the energy market develops,’ said Mr Bates.
‘At this point in time we are unable to say if the Vale Avenue site would be suitable for any similar projects, but it could be an option in the future if it is deemed beneficial for the community and business.
‘In terms of solar panel arrays, there are likely to be more suitable sites on the island.’
