Wider planning exemptions generally welcomed
Wed 15 Dec 2021
The changes are part of a package put forward by the Development & Planning Authority, which generally "nods through" such applications anyway.
Currently, there are 22 exemptions for development on the land around houses, and this would be increased to nearly 40, while for the first time flats will be allowed exemptions, with 19 proposed.
Senior Constable Richard Leale said the Douzaine welcomed any move that reduced the level of red tape in the planning process and thus saved time and cost, as long as it did not result in widespread and inappropriate development.
The latest proposals – limited exemptions were introduced in 2009 – generally made good sense and appeared proportionate. The douzaine was aware, however, that St Sampson's had raised concerns about some specific areas, such as street furniture, speed humps and bus shelters, and he agreed that some scrutiny of these areas would be beneficial.
Good consultation
"The key thing here is that Planners are aware of the need to streamline processes as much as possible and we appreciated being involved at an early stage in the consultative process that led to the Billet d'Etat in the States today. We will continue to support sensible Planning decisions and constructively challenge those we do not believe are in the parish's best interests," he said.
- There are 16 new exemptions for houses, such as removing a hedge, demolishing or installing a chimney, installing external render, widening vehicle access and installing polytunnels.
- Nearly 20 existing exemptions have also been changed. Many of these were broadened, such as allowing for larger greenhouses and sheds, increasing the size and height of extensions and increasing the size and number of satellite dishes allowed.
- Changes for people in flats include rendering walls, installing a satellite dish, replacing doors and windows in existing gaps, reroofing properties and erecting a porch.