News

Two contested elections will be held for parochial positions at next week's Vale parish meeting, it has been confirmed today.

Parishioners who have been slow to pay this year's rates bill have responded well to appeals to do so or contact the Constables' Office if they are experiencing difficulties – but some accounts are still outstanding.

A planning application to establish a new quarry at the Vale's Chouet headland was finally granted permission yesterday with conditions following an Open Planning Meeting.

Official notices have now been published inviting parishioners to submit nominations for a number of parochial roles, an annual event under the island's 1948 Reform Laws.

Deputies on the Development and Planning Authority will have the final say on whether Chouet headland can be used as a site for the island's newest granite quarry, it has been confirmed. Separately, the DPA is holding a drop-in event this Saturday, to which Vale parishioners are invited to address members on planning issues generally.

Vale parishioners are being asked for their views on new outdoor eating and drinking areas in the north of the island around the Bridge area. The consultation has been launched by Environment & Infrastructure as part of a process designed to make it easier for eateries and establishments to get permission for al fresco dining.

Dog owners who take their animals on the island's bays are being asked to keep an eye on them although the summer "beach ban" has come to an end for the year.

Parishioners with hedges and/or streams on their property are reminded that the legal deadline for cutting them back and cleaning douits has expired and inspections are now underway.

Most parishioners have now paid their rates with just a few outstanding, the office has reported. The previous backlog of 33 is now down to 22, with four of those part-paid.

Vale parishioners have been invited to take part in a survey aimed at improving the way islanders get around the island. It has been prepared by WSP consultants, who have been commissioned by the Guernsey Housing Association to carry out the study as part of its planning for the Kenilworth/Parc Le Lacheur housing development.