Vinery development could delay Leale's Yard - Parish Constable

Thursday 24 December 2020

Vale’s Senior Constable has welcomed a draft development framework encouraging more affordable housing in the north of the island – but fears it could prove to be a "mixed blessing" leading to further delays in the rejuvenation of Leale’s Yard.

More than 330 new homes could be developed at Fontaine Vinery, and part of the former Belgrave Vinery, which was designated as a Housing Allocation site in the Island Development Plan.

However Parish Constable Richard Leale questioned whether this announcement was made because it was "expedient", rather than necessarily being the "right site to develop at this time."

“Any movement on providing new homes for the island’s young people is obviously welcome, especially since there is a pressing need for more accommodation that’s in the price reach of ordinary islanders,” he said.

“I am slightly surprised that it appears to make sense to press ahead with a large estate development where there are no facilities, shops or other amenities within easy walking distance, whereas all the planning to date, including at Tertre Lane and Saltpans, has been to place new housing in the Bridge centre area, so people have what they need on their doorstep.”

Pictured: Development & Planning Authority President Victoria Oliver.

The Vale Douzaine has long challenged the use of greenfield sites, such as the ‘triangle field’ on Braye Road, when disused sites such as Leale’s Yard could also provide housing. 

Mr Leale wanted to know "why this particular housing rabbit has been plucked out of the hat", adding that he would be contacting the States to ensure this work can take place in parallel with Leale’s Yard and other Bridge regeneration projects. 

A spokesperson for the DPA told Express that the development framework for Belgrave Vinery was independent from the framework for Leale's Yard, and that work on either site would have "no bearing on each other". In the first update statement from the new DPA in November, President Victoria Oliver said that there had been "positive discussions" regarding Leale's Yard, which could potentially result in an outline planning application.

Despite the shared name, Mr Leale has no connection to the Leale's Yard site. 

The consultation period is currently open for the draft development framework for the former Belgrave Vinery. CLICK HERE to read more.