There were numerous objections about La Rocque in Rue de la Rocque before spades even went in the ground, with worries about a two-storey build replacing the bungalow there previously. The DPA gave permission, but worries grew again last month after a metal framework went up, towering over the neighbouring houses above Rocquaine Bay.
Director of Planning Jim Rowles said the property had been inspected and assessed following receipt of complaints regarding its visual impact.
‘The service can confirm that the development currently being carried out is in accordance with the plans that were approved in October 2023 and May 2024 when a condition of approval requiring further details of levels was discharged,' he said.
Several letters of objection were received to the original application lodged in June 2023, many about the height of the development when compared with the single-storey flat-roofed house to the east.
A condition was imposed on the approval granted in October 2023 requiring further details of existing and proposed levels. Mr Rowles said further details of levels were submitted, and were considered in May 2024.
‘Although these showed that the roof ridges would be higher than the adjacent single-storey property, this was accepted due to the relative ground levels and the main bulk and massing of the proposed replacement dwelling being at or below the level of the existing boundary bank and hedgerows in public views from the south.'
He said public views from other directions were also considered and were found not to be unacceptably affected due to the position of the property, which is set back from the escarpment.
‘Although the pitched roof would protrude above the boundary bank and hedgerows in such views, the roof slope would be pitched away from the viewer, reducing the bulk and massing and, when finished with natural slate, the roof would recede into the landscape without causing significant visual harm.’
Mr Rowles said that in the context of the wider landscape – including the other existing buildings which could be seen in the same view – it was concluded that the development would have an acceptable impact on the character and appearance of the locality.
‘Having comprehensively reviewed the matter again in the light of the recent concerns expressed following the erection of the steel structure, the Planning Service remains satisfied that the development at La Rocque accords with all relevant policies of the Island Development Plan, and that when completed, it will have an acceptable visual impact,' said Mr Rowles.
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