The project aims to create a "welcoming and accessible venue" with a "flexible space allowing for multi-purpose use", such as education, sports and food markets.

"This is great news," said David De La Mare of DLM Architects, which has been working on the project. "We have worked closely with many of the users of the pools, the planning department and various consultants, and we thank them for their support.

Pictured: Vive La Vallette put together plans with DLM Architects.

"The feedback from planning was very positive, in particular their comments regarding accessibility and the final design of the building. We are pleased that they recognise and support the vision to develop La Vallette as a community asset which is welcoming to all, compliments the natural beauty of its location and respects the environment.

Dave Warr from Vive La Vallette said the project ties in with Guernsey's aim to build back better following the corona virus pandemic. 

"With government now promoting 'Revive and Thrive', this would be an ideal project to demonstrate that Guernsey is back in business and investing for the future," he said. 

"We are hopeful therefore that we can conclude negotiations with government and get spades in the ground on a timely basis."

The plans weren't without objection though and seven letters were sent to the Development & Planning Authority to raise concerns. The key points included:

• The pools and existing kiosk are already well used
• Some statements in the application about the existing facilities and their current use are untrue
• The proposed development is not needed
• The proposed development will harm the natural beauty of the area
• Wheelchair access can be provided relatively easily with minor changes
• Concerns about the impact the development will have on the community of swimmers who use the facilities
• More parking is needed
• Large development will cause congestion
• Current users won't be able to use the area while construction is underway

The DPA approved the plans but has put a number of conditions in place.

In line with the rules, the development can't begin until Traffic & Highway Services has carried out a consultation and given written consultation of any proposed measures.

Site works will also have to wait until each tree on the approved plan has been protected and the protection measures will have to remain in place for the duration of the building work.

The DPA noted that there could be a number of bats roosting or nesting in the area and has asked that Vive La Vallette contact La Société Guernesiaise to ensure no protected species will be impacted by the works.

Pictured: Bathing pools at La Vallette.

Mr Warr said a lot opg work had been put in to get the project to this stage.

"All credit to David De La Mare and his team at DLM Architects for helping VLV progress to this stage as gaining a planning consent is an important milestone and also a vindication of the VLV vision," he said.

"Thanks are also due to all of the VLV team who have maintained a positive attitude through these challenging past few months and continued to contribute time and ideas as to how we can make this a project of which our community can be justifiably proud.

The plans and conditions can be read in full here.

Pictured top: Plans for new facilities at La Vallette, which have been approved.