The Jerbourg restaurant shut in 2019.
Planners have given their backing to the plans for a four-bed home, which would make the most of the elevated east coast views.
The redevelopment of the site had proved controversial in the past, with some islanders keen for it to return as a hospitality business.
There were three objections to the latest plans, with worries about the appearance of the build, how big it would be, how it could overlook neighbours, and how the building could block neighbouring homes’ views and impact property values.
The States archaeologist also had some worries, noting that some of the new structures – notably the ‘living’ space – appeared to intrude into the northern edges of the Jerbourg ramparts.
The ramparts – sometimes known as Jerbourg Castle – were added in the Bronze Age, Iron Age and medieval periods, and stretched across the headland. The earthworks on the western side of Jerbourg Road are a protected monument, but the designation does not stretch to the other side of the road.
The States archaeologist said this was unfortunate. ‘The ramparts very obviously continue beneath the Doyle Monument and down to the east coast,’ he wrote in his representation to the Development & Planning Authority.
‘In view of this possible intrusion into prehistoric earthworks, I would like to request an archaeological watching brief on excavation into the southern edges of the site, in particular any reduction in levels of the area which used to serve as public parking adjacent to the road around the monument.’
He added that this would also provide an opportunity to see whether a Second World War structure existed beneath the parking area. It is believed to have been destroyed, but may be further to the south-east than originally thought.
The site borders the cliffs, which are a site of special significance. Agriculture, Countryside & Land Management officials wanted vegetation along the boundary kept and recommend that there should be no external lighting at the back of the property to avoid new artificial light pollution.
The DPA decided that the proposal would not have an unacceptable adverse impact on the character or quality of the area
It added that with a variety of developed trees in the area, the proposed building would not be unduly visually intrusive.
‘Long-distance views of the site may be possible from St Peter Port, such as from Castle Emplacement, however the development would not appear as an obtrusive feature in long-distance views,’ it said
With regard to the ramparts, the DPA said the site was not protected, but granted permission on condition that a watching brief be undertaken by States archaeologists.
The application was from Petit Port Pension Scheme and Andrew Haining, who bought the restaurant for £1m. in 2018. They declined to comment.
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