DPA approves plans for Home Bargains store at Quayside
PLANS for a new homeware store in St Sampson’s, described as a 'milestone' for the area, have been approved at an open planning meeting.
The planning application to develop the former 2,166 sq. m former Quayside site into a Home Bargains store was unanimously agreed by the Development and Planning Authority this morning at Beau Sejour. Also approved were plans to convert three nearby properties, Durlston House, Quayside House and La Croix into six flats.
DPA president Victoria Oliver said the committee was pleased to see appropriate development on an underutilised site.
‘Our role involves balancing development to enable the economy while preserving and enhancing what makes Guernsey a great place to live,’ she said.
‘These applications address that balance well by bringing investment to the area while retaining the features steeped in Guernsey’s quarrying history which contribute to our island’s heritage, look and feel.'
Deputy Oliver said there has been a perception that it was not possible for development to take place in the area until a planning brief was prepared.
‘Approving this application allows significant investment in the area without prejudicing the outcome of the local planning brief for the St Sampson’s harbour action area which is currently being prepared.
'This means that after this development is carried out, there is the possibility of additional future development as part of a shared and coordinated vision through the local planning brief to bring further improvement and rejuvenation to the Bridge.’
The former Quayside store shut almost a decade ago, in January 2015. The new redevelopment will make use of and recycled granite from the existing site and include the creation of a garden centre, customer car park, and includes a large roof-mounted solar panels.
The application stated that the project would require a 12-month £10m. redevelopment, while the business could eventually provide up to 100 jobs.
DPA member Sasha Kazantseva-Miller welcomed the investment from outside the island.
‘This is a very important vote of confidence in Guernsey and investment in the Bridge to create multi-use development, including residential.’
