Flurry of planning applications could see more retail converted to flats

Tuesday 26 October 2021

Several planning applications for housing developments have been submitted, including changes of use from retail to residential.

It follows a call from the Development and Planning Authority for developers to come forward and offer suggestions for re-purposing unused retail and office space.

Express recently reported on a survey conducted by Watts Property, in conjunction with the DPA, that highlighted a surplus of empty office space in St Peter Port ripe for redevelopment. 

At the time, Deputy Oliver alluded to some potential St Peter Port developments, including leisure facilities and flats. A recent planning list has now revealed Clinton Cards as one such development, with five one-bedroom flats being proposed above the store.

Pictured: Plans have been submitted for a series of flats above the High Street.

The entire building is designated Class 10 (retail/storage) but the intention is now to change part of its use to residential. 

“The successful delivery of this project will ensure that the building is maintained and protected for years,” said Tyrell Dowinton Associates Ltd. in the planning application. 

“It will also ensure that the redundant space is fully utilised, and that additional residential accomodation is provided in accordance with island needs.”

Elsewhere, a designated retail space in St Sampson's near the Bridge could be part developed into two new properties.

If approved, 4 New Road will be converted two property units.

Pictured: The development on New Road would still retain part of its retail status.

The developments come as the States of Guernsey’s ‘Housing Action Group’ continues to explore different routes out of the housing issues facing the island.

The States has recently purchased Kenilworth Vinery with the intention of developing 100+ GHA units on the Saltpans site.

“It is anticipated that this may also reduce pressure on the private rental market, which we know currently has far more demand than supply,” said the President of P&R at the time, Deputy Peter Ferbrache.

Planning applications also reveal an interest into revamping some older properties to provide more modern living accommodation.

A protected property on Hauteville could be redeveloped into five maisonettes.

That would mark a reduction from the 10 bedsits, however the developers say it would provide more modern and suitable living space.