Planning process is at odds with the wishes of Guernsey people

Things are getting worse, not better, despite the adoption of the new Island Development Plan.

Les Blanches field in St Martin’s was handed over for development despite the strong policies of the previous Rural Area Plan. In my opinion a disgraceful outcome that rocked the credibility of the planning system.

And now, with a new plan, that I had hoped would give better protection to undeveloped land areas, we have seen another field lost to development in the form of a campsite. Had permission been given to erect, then remove the posh tents once the season was over, then the field would still be available for agriculture, however with the addition of a swimming pool and associated buildings, shop, etc., then the field is lost forever.

And the latest proposal for 17 new homes to be built on yet another green area in the Vale, for me, really puts the planning process at odds with the desires of the people of Guernsey, which is to use old vinery sites, or other derelict areas of land, before we take any more agricultural fields.

If green field sites continue to be given permission to develop in this way, then we shall have nothing left to hand down to the next generations.

It is high time that the political members of the Development & Planning Authority got the planners back under control and gave the planning system more credibility. Many people, including myself, have lost all faith in a system that fails to protect our green spaces.

JANINE LE SAUVAGE,

Meadow View,

Les Hubits de Bas,

St Martin’s,

GY4 6NB.