Planners must give thought to protecting island and its wildlife

Again we see reluctance to protect the Second World War fortifications around the island. The efforts by Festung Guernsey are to be applauded for the work they have achieved in keeping as many sites opened and maintained for our tourism. I quite agree with the remarks from Festung about the developers rubbing their hands with glee at the possibility of developing these coastal sites if given permission.

We have already seen around our coast that planning permission has been given to build what many would call large and out-of-character properties.

We have now heard that one particular property which caused great concern next to one of our popular beaches which has only been built in the last two years is now up for sale.

Moving on, we also know the DPA are now looking at changing the law on hedge removal etc, again helping the developers.

We have seen a massive decline in our bird population over the last few years. More derelict greenhouse sites encouraged to be developed means less habitat for our wildlife, whatever it may be. We are losing hedgerows by the mile and trees all in the call for development. Only last year I actually saw two to three house martins trying to return to their nests but because that particular house had scaffolding around it they were disturbed and never came back.

Our DPA should seriously consider how to protect our land for wildlife and clamp down on over-development, and seriously look at our laws on protecting our wildlife in giving permission to developers.

We see at Rocquaine a development that is so out of character on hold at present. This lovely part of the island must be protected to be in keeping with how it should be.

I have to agree with many who have no confidence in our DPA.

We all remember the days when Tom Ogier was in charge of what used to be called the Island Development Committee then. He protected our island.

He was a tough man who would never allow what is happening today. Sad to say, his type of character is no longer around.

R. S. MAUGER

Valletta

Rue des Frieteaux

St Martin’s

GY4 6XA