‘Planners got it right with Castel Hospital’

The senior States committee had described the listing, revealed just four weeks ago, as ‘absurd’.

But it has ruled out appealing, instead saying that it would hold ‘discussions’ with the Development & Planning Authority.

Planners have listed much of the exterior of the former mental hospital building, which dates back to the 1800s, as well as specific features, like the courtyard, water pump and granite arches.

The move sparked anger from P&R, which wants to redevelop the site into housing. It could have pursued the matter to an independent planning tribunal, but has ruled it out.

‘The committee remains extremely disappointed in the decision to list parts of the Castel Hospital site, creating further barriers to its future potential uses,’ said a spokesman.

‘The committee has decided not to appeal the decision, but is instead intending to discuss the matter further with the D&PA. The committee believes the site has significant potential to help address the serious problems Guernsey faces when it comes to the availability of housing.’

Historical building experts have welcomed the listing.

Architect Andrew Dyke has worked in local architecture for 45 years and has worked on many historic buildings.

He said the planners had got the balance for the listing right.

‘I think they have been very careful about the listing,’ he said.

‘The fact they didn’t list the whole site or all of the inside of the building is proof of that.’

He rejected the argument that the listing would stop development.

‘It just needs to be done with care and imagination.’

He said there was plenty of opportunity to make the main building into homes.

‘It lends itself to being converted into a series of apartments or maisonettes,’ he said.

‘It could be a great asset and beautiful place to live.’

He noted that there was a lot of land around the buildings, as well as unlisted structures which could be replaced with homes.

‘There is stacks of space for new development,’ he said.

‘We don’t have to cram every site as though it was a sardine tin. Let’s allow some space and light and make it a nice place to live. They just need a good architect.’

National Trust president Mike Brown also welcomed the confirmation of the listing.

‘This is an important historic building and we are pleased to see it is being listed.

‘The listing seems to be proportionate, protecting the external facade and important features, like the outside pump and 18th century stone staircase, while leaving out less historic buildings, which will allow the site to be redeveloped sensitively.’