Grande Mare hotel plans stuck in Planning delay

An application to demolish the hotel next to Vazon Bay and create a new country club was submitted to Planning at the start of the year. It included the removal of the health suite and golf driving range to be replaced with a new range and 15 new lodges of tourism accommodation.

The scheme’s proposers had initially expected a decision from Planning in April. But months on, one has still not been made – although the president of the Development & Planning Authority has expressed confidence that the process was entering its final phase with the completion of an environmental impact assessment (EIA).

The delays have led to warnings that redevelopment work at La Grande Mare may now not begin until next year with knock-on effects to the wider economy.

In an update to members, La Grande Mare golf club said it was still awaiting planning permission.

‘Unfortunately this has not been forthcoming and culminated in a letter from the Development & Planning Authority on Thursday of last week requesting further information.

‘In view of this disappointing outcome our team is assessing the implications. The additional information required will take about five to seven weeks to provide and a further four weeks to consider by Planning.

‘This takes us to November at the earliest so realistically assuming a successful outcome and bearing in mind the proximity of Christmas, work is unlikely to start before January 2022.’

The update said the delay to the project meant the cost implications, availability of contractors and the emotional toll on all concerned would have to be looked at ‘very closely’.

Brian Singleton, secretary and treasurer of the Guernsey Building Trades Employers Association, expressed disappointment at the delays and warned of the risk of a wider economic impact.

‘The GBTEA notes with great concern that the project to extend and upgrade the facilities at LGM golf club have been delayed again due to planning issues. This is an important project to both the whole island economy, but in particular to the construction industry,’ he said.

At a time when the States were looking to increase tax revenue, he said this project would generate significant income for government through the construction phase and as an ongoing facility.

‘While due consideration must be taken of the environmental impact of large projects, such as this, the DPA has a responsibility to engage with developers in an efficient and timely manner.

‘As well as testing the patience of the owner of this specific project, extended planning delays will adversely affect the reputation of the island of other major investors looking at potential projects in Guernsey.’

Deputy Victoria Oliver, president of the Development & Planning Authority, said: ‘Given the potential for this application to be determined by the committee, there is a need for D&PA members to remain impartial.

‘With this in mind, the D&PA is doing as much to assist as is possible and have sought to expedite matters in order that a decision can be reached promptly on receipt and consideration of the EIA.

‘We are confident that the EIA is the final element and therefore feel the process is now close to conclusion.

‘We are in regular contact with the applicant and their representatives, we understand their frustrations, and would like to thank all involved for their continued patience.’