06 March 2023
Two public consultations have been launched for Islanders to comment on proposed
supplementary planning guidance for new standards for the size of homes, and for the amount of
parking space that should be provided for new homes.
The new draft planning guidance has been issued by the Minister for Environment, Deputy
Jonathan Renouf.
Policy on space standards for the development of new homes was last revised in 1994. The new
draft guidance looks to improve the overall size of new homes, paying particular attention to the
amount of storage space and private open space. It will set standards in proportion to the potential
number of people who may live in the home.
Policy on parking standards for new homes was last revised in 1988. The new draft guidance
looks to better reflect the Island’s change in transport policy, which places increased emphasis on
encouraging more sustainable forms of travel through means such as bicycle parking. The draft
guidance also suggests that in St Helier town centre, there may be circumstances where car-free
residential development could be permitted.
The consultations are open until 17 April 2023. Islanders can comment by completing the online
surveys, via email, or post.
For more information or to complete the surveys online, visit:
A webinar on the draft planning guidance for residential space standards will be held on Tuesday 4
April from 12.30pm to 1.30pm. A webinar on the draft planning guidance for residential parking
standards will be held on Tuesday 28 March from 12.30pm to 1.30pm. Both webinars are free to
attend and can be booked via an Eventbrite link on the relevant consultation pages.
Minister for Environment, Deputy Jonathan Renouf, said: “I am very pleased to bring forward these
long-awaited pieces of revised supplementary planning guidance.
“Given the increasing provision of more compact forms of development, such as one and two
bedroom flats, there is a greater need to ensure that Islanders can still enjoy good levels of space
in their homes. These standards will ensure that all homes, regardless of their form, offer a good
quality of accommodation and space for people to have a good quality of life.
“There is, of course, a link between the amount of space we provide for parking and the amount of
outside space available for residents’ enjoyment. Put crudely, less parking means there is the
potential for greater provision of outdoor space – and it is intended that all new developments
should move in this direction and that we critically re-examine how much car parking space might
be needed in different parts of the Island. In the past, our policies have encouraged car use. There
is now a clear emphasis in the other direction, and while there is still a need to make provision for
cars, where alternative travel is more accessible, the provision of car parking space may be reduced
and the need for specific bicycle parking increased.
“I encourage Islanders to comment on both of the consultations as their views will help shape the
final draft of the supplementary planning guidance.”
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