Proposed Changes to Jersey Planning Law Could Facilitate Appeals for Moveable Structures

Residents in Jersey might find it simpler to lodge formal complaints regarding planning decisions concerning structures capable of being relocated. The States of Jersey Complaints Board determined in September that the existing planning and building law in Jersey did not permit individuals to appeal applications related to “moveable structures.” There is a possibility that the legislation will be amended to enable third-party appeals for rulings on structures like marquees and tents. Deputy Steve Luce, the Minister for Environment, put forward a proposal to modify the law, thereby permitting third-party appeals for decisions “relating to moveable structures and advertisements.” Responding to the report, Luce advised retaining the existing definition of “moveable structures” to ensure adaptability for diverse situations and because he deemed it “fit for purpose.” He also suggested implementing compliance monitoring, which would guarantee adherence to the conditions associated with permission for moveable structures, citing an example like the removal of the marquee in St Mary by October 2024, with “active monitoring” to be conducted by the planning compliance team. A recommendation was made for a three-year validity period for permissions granted for moveable structures, stipulating their removal or reapplication upon expiry. Furthermore, Luce advised enhancing the processes of the planning committee, providing more explicit guidance and advice from the department, modifying site notice templates to indicate when applications pertain to moveable structures, and broadening the scope of appeal provisions. Readers can follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Story ideas can be submitted to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.