Island plan report: Greenfield areas need to be built on in Jersey

Greenfield areas will need to be built on to meet the housing needs of Jersey.

That is what a report setting out the vision for the new Island Plan says. 

The Environment Minister is warning some existing green fields will have to be given over to construction, sparking the potential for a series of controversial planning decisions.

He says difficult choices will need to be made in the short term to accommodate population growth and the current housing shortfall that is driving up prices.

It means 8,000 new homes will need to be built in Jersey over the next decade if the island is to avoid a housing crisis.

Most future development will be allocated in town and built up areas, but the plan suggests it will need to spill into green areas.

The ‘Island Plan Preferred Strategy Report’ also refers to projected migration numbers.

Figures show around 800 more people are expected each year due to migration and births. 

Where the homes will go, and ensuring they are affordable, is urgent, says the Chief Executive of Citizens Advice Jersey.

The report is intended to be used as part of evidence to shape new planning policies up to 2024. 

A 12 week public consultation on the draft Island Plan is scheduled for early next year.

• Watch Gary Burgess's report...