While the parish would not usually comment on planning applications, because members rarely reach a consensus, this time it was different, said parish constable Richard Leale.
He disputed comments from the architect behind the proposal that there had been considerable support shown.
‘In this case, the proposal for an eight-storey block of flats just off the Bridge has engendered a wholesale condemnation from them,’ he said.
‘On seeing the artistic impression on the front page of the Guernsey Press on Wednesday, one needed to check that the actual date was correct, and not 1 April.’
Island Land has submitted an outline planning application for a block of 12 flats on the site of the former Citizens’ Advice office in Bridge Avenue.
The company pointed out that the 33m- high building was shorter than the power station chimneys on North Side.
‘Comparing the mass and height to the power station chimneys and suchlike that do not stand on the sky line is frankly ridiculous,’ said Mr Leale.
Plans submitted for nearby Leale’s Yard have buildings of four storeys or fewer which he said meant that the Bridge frontage would be unaffected.
‘This application smacks of piecemeal, opportunistic development and should await plans for Leale’s Yard to be re-drawn and approved first.’
Although the island had a housing shortage, Mr Leale said it was a fact that people preferred not to live in high-rise buildings and preferred to have outside space.
‘The question planners and developers need to ask, therefore, is “would I be willing to live in one of these flats?”’
The douzaine intends to send a formal objection to the planning department and is encouraging others not in favour to do the same.
Mr Leale pointed out that douzaine member Deputy Gary Collins, a member of the States Housing Committee, was unable to express his opinion because of his role on the new committee, and had not done so.
Details of the application can be found at gov.gg/liveplanningapplications
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