Department of the Environment
Ministerial Advisory Groups Review
May 2012
Introduction
Following Ministerial Decision MD-PE-2012-0004 dated 23 January 2012, a review of all Ministerial Advisory Groups has been undertaken.
In carrying out this assessment, the Minister is mindful of the need to streamline public administration where possible and to ensure that the department’s resources are being used effectively in light of the Comprehensive Spending Review.
In the sections below, each of the groups are highlighted, with a brief description of each, when they were set up, the membership of each group, and an assessment whether or not the group has delivered on its brief. A conclusion is given as to whether the group is still required to operate, or in another form.
Ministerial Advisory Groups currently in place as at January 2012
1. Jersey Architecture Commission (JAC)
2. Ministerial Listings Advisory Group (MLAG)
3. Renewable Energy Commission
4. Jersey Energy Trust (JET)
5. Advisory Group on Environmental Sustainability (AGES)
6. Jersey Environment Forum (JEF)
7. Ecology Trust Fund (ETF)
8. Fisheries and Marine Resources Panel
9. Ramsar Management Authority / Technical Sub Committees
10. Island Plan Affordable Housing Steering Group
11. Energy Policy Political Steering Group
12. Waterfront Design Group (WDG)
13. Air quality political steering group
14. Energy Policy Industry Steering Group
1. Jersey Architecture Commission (JAC)
The JAC was established in March 2010 (MD-PE-2009-0121): its purpose was to provide an independent, informed design critique of major development schemes to assist the Minister and the Planning Applications Panel in decision-making, where the design and architecture of schemes was a material planning consideration. This was regarded as a critical element in securing the former Minister’s design objectives (as set out in the Jersey Design Guide (date 2008)) and an integral part of the former Minister’s design and architecture agenda.
Since its inception, in March 2010, the JAC has met approximately once every two months reviewing, on average, four cases per meeting.
Latterly, the JAC has also offered advice in relation to the preparation of site-specific development briefs that are being prepared under the auspices of policies and proposals for the development of States-owned land set out in the new Island Plan.
Purpose
1. To provide an external independent forum for Jersey through which the promotion of good architecture and urban design can take place.
2. To provide a forum through which external views on the design of new development schemes can be obtained.
3. To work with architects and developers practising in Jersey to offer design guidance for new schemes.
4. Promote better education, skills and careers for the built environment.
5. To Inspire people to demand more buildings and spaces.
6. Through design review to show clients what mistakes to avoid and opportunities to seize.
7. Advise on ways to bet better value through better design.
Panel make up
The panel Commission will be made up of up to eight formally-appointed Commissioners.
As part of any Design Review meeting, three commissioners attend as a minimum, the maximum attendance being set at four members.
The Commissioners are representative of the following areas:
a) Academic debate on architecture and design
b) Current architectural practice
c) Urban and Landscape design
Appointments will run for two or three years from the date of appointment.
Current Membership
Marcus Binney (Chair)
Professor David Watkin
George Ferguson
Andy Theobold
Mike Waddington
Stuart Fell
Antony Gibb
Sara Marsh
David Cox
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
The JAC has consolidated and developed its role, and plays a valuable role in the critique of major development schemes and schemes with significant visual impact, as well as being engaged in commenting upon master plans and development briefs.
The Minister has already reviewed the function and value of this group, as a result of a pressing caseload and the need to address the expiry of terms of office, and resolved to continue its function, as well as refreshing the membership and number of commissioners (see MD-2012-0010).
2. Ministerial Listings Advisory Group (MLAG)
This was established on the 28th June 2006 via Ministerial Decision, MD-PE-2006-0057 as the Ministerial Registration and Listing Advisory Group (MRLAG).
Following the review of the historic environment protection regime in 2011, the name of the group has been amended to MLAG, as it no longer deals with matters of ‘registration’.
The provision of advice to the Minister by MLAG is managed by Jersey Heritage under the auspices of its Service Level Agreement with the Minister. The group meets on a monthly basis.
Purpose
Under the provisions of the Planning and Building (Jersey) Law 2002 the Minister for Planning and Environment may consult with any person having ‘special knowledge’ of a particular building or site, before including it in the List. The ‘special knowledge’ required of such persons or bodies should be related to a building or site’s special archaeological, architectural, artistic, historical, scientific or traditional interest.
The Service Level Agreement with Jersey Heritage provides the Minister with a primary source of objective professional advice about the special interests of a building or place the subject of an assessment. The Minister supplements this with contributions from other persons with particular involvement in, relevant experience of and specialist knowledge in Jersey’s historic built environment.
The principal purpose of the Ministerial Listing Advisory Group is, therefore, defined as follows;
- To provide expert advice to the Minister about the historic, architectural, archaeological or other relevant interests of a building or place in relation to Listing of that building or place, in addition to the professional recommendation offered by Jersey Heritage acting in its capacity as professional adviser to the Minister;
- In essence, the role of the Group will be to offer supplementary expert advice to the Minister about the particular interest of a building or place and, based on the collective knowledge of the Group, to express and justify informed views as to whether that building or place is of sufficient merit as a cultural heritage asset to warrant inclusion or retention on the List and at what grade.
- Whilst the Group may consider matters collectively there is no requirement to provide the Minister with a consensual view: thus differences of opinion, based on an expert knowledge and justified accordingly, should be recorded by Jersey Heritage and referred to the Minister. The various views and advice offered by MLAG will represent a material consideration and is not binding on the Minister.
Group Make Up
JHT manage the appointment of the group, according to the procedures that are consistent with the Jersey Appointments Commission, and also manage the operation of the group as an integral part of the Listing process of heritage assets.
MLAG membership is recruited according to best practice for openness, transparency, equality of opportunity and public accountability.
Any individual who is a professional member of an organisation involved in the historic built environment, has relevant qualifications or who has a proven level of relevant experience and specialist knowledge can apply to become a member of MLAG.
Members will be appointed by a panel comprising two members of MLAG and a Trustee of Jersey Heritage. The Panel shall use its best endeavours to ensure that the group shall be balanced in terms of knowledge and interest of those who share a commitment to the historic built environment of Jersey.
Jersey Heritage, through its professional human resources staff, will oversee the selection process to ensure compliance with appropriate standards.
MLAG shall comprise a minimum number of ten and a maximum number of fifteen members.
In order to best serve the public interest and to ensure that the Minister is provided with independent, well-informed and balanced advice, membership of MLAG will be drawn from individuals;
with a professional involvement in the historic built environment, or
with relevant qualifications or
with a proven level of relevant experience and specialist knowledge.
Members of MLAG shall elect a Chairman. The position of Chairman shall be subject to the endorsement of the Minister for Planning and Environment.
The role of the Chairman is to chair the meetings and be responsible for the orderly conduct of business, ensuring that the Code of Conduct and Terms of Reference of the group are upheld. The Chairman must be independent and should not hold current commercial interests in the historic built environment that may regularly conflict with the deliberations of the group. The Chairman will serve a fixed term of three years, after which the position will be reselected by members.
Members will serve a fixed term of three years, after which they will be eligible for re-appointment.
Current Membership
Charles Alluto
Charles is currently Chief Executive of The National Trust for Jersey with day-to-day responsibility for the overall management of the Trust’s landholdings and 20 historic buildings. Charles holds the RICS Diploma in Historic Building Conservation.
Chris Aubin
Chris is a member of the Société Jersiaise, and previous Chairman of the Archaeology Section. He is also a member of the National Trust for Jersey and has been involved in excavations at Le Moulin de Tesson. He is qualified in archaeological sciences, and has drafted various archaeological site conservation statements for Jersey Heritage.
John Clarke
John has been a member of MRLAG since 2007. He has held the position of Chairman of the Archaeology Section of the Société Jersiaise since 2007 with the objective of conservation of archaeological and historic structures. He has undertaken study in archaeology and been involved in various projects, including excavations.
Francis Corbet
Francis has been involved in the original MRLAG and its predecessor since inception. He is past President of the Société Jersiaise and a member of the Waterfront Design Group.
Paul Craig
Paul is a member of the Société Jersiaise. For many years, he has researched vernacular building methods and styles, and is particularly interested in the history and development of St Helier. Paul has worked with the Historic Buildings Section, Planning Department, States of Jersey as part of the team reviewing buildings for protection.
Andre Ferrari
Andre was commissioned by Save Jersey’s Heritage to produce two books charting some of the Island’s architectural losses since the Liberation. Over the past years he has worked with the Historic Buildings Section, Planning Department, States of Jersey as part of the team reviewing buildings for protection, and is a member of the Waterfront Design Group.
Antony Gibb
Antony has a background in history of art, archaeology and construction. Following post-graduate work at the Architectural Association, he has specialised in the repair of historic structures for the past 17 years and is a member of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation.
Paul Harding
Paul is a qualified Chartered Architect and a corporate member of the Royal Institute of British Architects. Current President of the Association of Jersey Architects. Paul ran as Project Director for the development of the Jersey Archive, which received Civic Trust and Concrete Society Awards.
Robert Le Mottée
Bob is a Chartered Architectural Technologist with an interest in the protection and enhancement of the Island’s architectural and archaeological heritage. He is a member of the National Trust for Jersey Properties Committee and has been architectural technologist/consultant for various National Trust projects, including Tesson Mill and Brook Farm.
Richard Le Sueur
Richard is a qualified Architect and a member of the Association of Jersey Architects, the National Trust for Jersey and the Société Jersiaise. Richard has been involved in the restoration of Le Rât Cottage and The Elms.
Colin Tadier
Colin is a structural engineer by profession, with 30 years of experience, and an interest in vernacular buildings. He holds a postgraduate diploma in Historic Building Conservation and is currently completing his dissertation for an Msc.
Mike Waddington
Mike is a Chartered Architect and former President of the Association of Jersey Architects. He was a member of the former Jersey Building Heritage Sub-Committee.
John Williams
John is a Chartered Member of the Royal Institute of British Architects and a Registered Architect in Jersey. He was architect for the Société Jersiaise on the restoration of Hamptonne Country Life Museum 1989–1996, and for Jersey Heritage on the restoration of Mont Orgueil.
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
MLAG continues to play a valuable role in the assessment of the heritage value of buildings and places in Jersey by harnessing much of the external expertise and knowledge that exists within the Island’s tertiary heritage sector. The group provides a useful, complementary role to the professional expertise applied to the Listing process by Jersey Heritage, to ensure that the Minister has a robust and well-informed basis upon which to make Listing decisions.
The Group is heavily engaged in the comprehensive review of all of the Island’s existing heritage assets presently, and will continue to be so until such time that the survey data from this exercise, involving some 3,500 buildings and places, is completed: it is envisaged that this will likely be the case in 2013/14.
Once the current review of the Island’s heritage assets is complete it will then be timely to review, with Jersey Heritage Trust through the mechanism of the Service Level Agreement, the future operation of MLAG given that the number of cases requiring review should diminish significantly.
3. Renewable Energy Commission
(formerly Tidal Power Commission and Tidal Power Group)
The Tidal Power Group was set up on 21st July 2008 via Ministerial Decision MD/PE/2008/0153.
The Tidal Power Commission was set up on the 5th May 2009 via Ministerial Decision MD/PE/2009/0093
The TPC was remandated into the Renewable Energy Commission via Ministerial Decision MD-PE-2011-0043, on the 18th April 2011
Purpose
By the end of 2013, working with appropriate key stakeholders and other States Departments carry out the following tasks:
1. Extend the remit of newly mandated Renewable Energy Commission to include exploring the feasibility of other utility scale (i.e. >3MW) renewable energy opportunities for Jersey for example off-shore wind;
2. Continue discussions with the UK and Europe to resolve the eligibility of Jersey to access renewable energy feed-in tariffs and/or other subsidies;
3. Continue work with the Economic Development Department and other appropriate stakeholders to explore other potential funding routes for a utility scale project for example co-operative ownership;
4. Continue, strengthen and, where possible, formalise relationships with other Channel Islands in respect of renewable energy opportunities in the whole Channel Island region for mutual benefit;
5. Resolve leasing arrangements between the States of Jersey and the Crown;
6. Draft renewables energy legislation to regulate, licence and consent for the extraction of renewable energy and lodge for States debate;
7. Develop a practical consenting framework including a space use framework;
8. Continue to actively engage with the British Irish Council (Environment) Renewables sub-group attended by officers from the Planning and Environment Department and represented by the Minister or Assistant Minister for the Environment;
9. Consider (and ultimately bring to the States for approval) commercialisation strategies including synergies with other Channel Islands and Europe / UK.
Group Make Up:
Constable Dan Murphy (Chairman)
Sir Nigel Broomfield
Alick McIntosh
Mike Liston
The Commission will have the discretion to call upon the assistance of others with appropriate expertise as they see fit.
Executive Officer is the Director for Environmental Policy.
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
The majority of the workstreams have commenced with Officers taking the lead and with the Commission involved where appropriate. For the most part, work can continue and be led by officers, with political oversight being given by the Minister, and through the British Irish Council summits where appropriate and where related to cross jurisdictional issues.
The expert advice from members of the Commission could be utilised as part of an Energy Partnership as envisaged in the Energy White Paper.
It is therefore considered that the group continues as per its current Terms of Reference until the States Assembly has debated the Energy White Paper. This will set the direction for external advice requirements via a possible Energy Partnership.
4. Jersey Energy Trust (JET)
This was established on the 15th June 2009 via Ministerial Decision MD/PE/2009/0114
The Jersey Energy Trust (JET) is a non-political body to provide an oversight function to support the programmes and objectives of an Energy Efficiency Service (EES).
Purpose
During Phase 1 (2009/10):
Oversee the delivery of improvements in comfort and warmth for low income and vulnerable consumers;
Assist low income customers with advice and the distribution of grants for a number of energy efficiency measures such as loft and cavity wall insulation, temperature controls, lagging and draught proofing;
Assist in the development of a persuasive case for continuing and expanding the role of the Trust in subsequent years.
In addition during Phase 2 (2010 onwards depending on securing long term funding:
Expand the programme to assist the domestic, industry and governmental sectors to stabilise their energy use in the built environment at 2005 levels, so avoiding a predicted 20% increase in energy demand by 2030 (as described by the Energy policy Green Paper ‘Fuel for Thought’);
Assist the domestic, industry and governmental sector in reducing carbon emissions from the built environment to achieve carbon reduction targets (as described by the Energy policy Green Paper ‘Fuel for Thought’);
Promote the use of energy efficiency measures and potentially renewable energy in schools as a learning tool linked in with the curriculum;
Promote and assist with the uptake of small scale renewable technologies
There was some expectation that along with a move into phase 2 activities the EES would move to an Arms-length body from the States whereby the JET would take a more active role in the operational management of the EES rather than the advisory role than at present.
NB The JEC contributed £0.5M to the department in order to seed fund the EES. Spend was predicated on a number of milestones. The remaining £150,000 is released on achievement of a final milestone of which the wording is subject to interpretation. The Department believes it means that the money can be released when long term funding for the EES is secured and would argue that this has been met. Although we have not clarified this with the JEC, I suspect they may attempt to argue that moving to an arms length organisation was what was meant by the final milestone. If they feel this is the case then they may wish to explore recouping the final tranche of £150,000 if the Minister decided to internalise the EES.
Current Membership
The membership comprises:
Andrea Cooke OBE (Acting Chair until October 2009)
Sir Nigel Broomfield (chair after October 2009)
Chris Ambler
David Lord
Peter Cadiou.
Executive officers comprise the Chief Executive Officer and the Deputy Chief Officer for Environment and the Director for Environmental Policy.
Andrea Cooke and Chris Ambler will have served 3 years on the Trust in mid 2012 and are thus up for re-election
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
The work outlined in the Terms of Reference has commenced and the Jersey Energy Efficiency Service has been created and successfully delivered its mandate. There has been further development of the EES and work is now underway to consider how this will evolve under the auspices of the Energy White Paper.
During the initiation of the EES and the continued running of the EES, the Jersey Energy Trust has provided valuable oversight, governance and direction for the scheme.
For the most part, work is delivered by officers within the Department and political oversight is continued to be given by the PE Minister. The JET provides an additional layer of governance and oversight and the ability to offer a different view from the traditional political or civil service one.
The JET considers that is provides a valuable service to the EES and could help to evolve the EES into the future though the work of the Energy White Paper.
It is considered that the group continues as per its current Terms of Reference until the States Assembly has debated the Energy White Paper. This will set the direction for external advice requirements via a possible Energy Partnership.
5. Advisory Group on Environmental Sustainability (AGES)
The Environment Think Tank was initially set up by the Minister for Planning and Environment in January 2008 as an informal and temporary group.
The decision was made to formalise the group by Ministerial Decision MD/PE/2008/0200 on 8th September 2008.
It has subsequently changed its name to the Advisory Group on Environmental Sustainability.
Purpose
AGES is an expert advisory group that seeks to set out the environmental challenges and opportunities faced by the Island at a strategic political level and provide advice and input to assist the delivery of the environmental aspects of the States Strategic Plan and future development of policy.
Current Membership
Minister for Planning and Environment
Assistant Minister for Planning and Environment
Sir Nigel Broomfield (co-chair)
Lee Durrell, Honorary Director, Durrell (co-chair)
James Godfrey, Chief Executive, RJA&HS
Hugh Forshaw, Past Chairman, Jersey Environment Forum
Chris Ambler, Jersey Electricity Company
Paul Masterton, Chief Executive, Durrell
Bruce Willing
Alick McIntosh
Ian Christie, UK-based independent sustainability advisor
The Minister for Planning and Environment may co-opt further members as appropriate.
Co-chairs are appointed by the Minister for Planning and Environment for the duration of one year.
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
The Group has not met since April 2010. It was last active in October 2010 to assist the then Minister in a speech given to the Chamber of Commerce/Institute of Directors.
The current Minister has not required such external advice since office, and it is therefore considered that this group is now formally disbanded.
6. Jersey Environment Forum (JEF)
Purpose
The Jersey Environment Forum (JEF) was established by the Environment and Public Services Committee in June 2003 to bring together the views of all those who have a stake in Jersey’s environment. The Forum has provided advice on the development and implementation of environmental policy issues to ensure that it is on a sound and informed basis. JEF has also facilitated the effective exchange of knowledge, information and views at all levels between the Government, the public and non-governmental stakeholders.
The JEF acts at an ‘operational level’, providing constructive criticism to the Minister and Assistant Minister for Planning and Environment on specific policy issues, bringing together the areas of interest that each member represents (in this sense the term operational refers to specific policies, projects and the business of the Department as defined by the States of Jersey Strategic Plan and Departmental Business Plan).
Current Membership
Members serve for 3 years – currently only 3 members do not have expired terms. They are:
Adrian Demain (expires Aug-12)
Liz Murphin (expires Jan-13)
Nick Palmer (expires Aug 12)
The previous Chair retired in April 2011 and there was no replacement proposed from the remaining members.
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
The group last met in November 2010. Due to the lack of membership and the level of inactivity, it is considered that the group has effectively closed down, and therefore it is recommended that it is now formally disbanded.
7. Ecology Trust Fund (ETF)
The Ecology Trust fund was created in 1991 with funds from an insurance payment for compensation from the oil tanker, the 'Amoco Cadiz', disaster. The fund currently stands at £39 000.00
Purpose
The funds were invested and the interest generated is granted to applicants for "ecological purposes".
The fund has paid out 10's of thousands of pounds since 1991 towards environmental projects, ecological studies etc. Jersey has very few sources of funding for ecological projects and the Ecology Fund is considered to be an important source of funding (although in the current financial climate the income generated is relatively small, being £5K 2010).
Meetings take place ad hoc, when applications to the fund have been received.
In recent years more Officer time has been required due to a change in funding the 'Environment Week', as the fund now sponsors 'prizes' for schools which carry out environmental education, gardening or wildlife projects. In all, 0.1% of the Natural Environment Team's time was spent on Ecology Fund issues in 2011.
Current Membership
The Board of Trustees comprises 5 (including the Chair) members recommended by the Minister for Planning & Environment and approved by the States, and is chaired by a States Member who is appointed by the Minister for Planning & Environment and approved by the States. Members should serve for no more than 10 years.
The current members:
Deputy Anne Pryke (Chair - appointed 2006)
Mr James Maxwell Allen
Mr Frances Binney
Mr Jerry Neil
Dr Amy Hall
The current Executive Officer is;
Mr John Pinel, Principal Ecologist, Department of the Environment
Supported by Mr Paul Chambers, Natural Environment Officer
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
There is an ongoing need to provide external oversight to the Fund and provide a board of Trustees. The governance and oversight that the Trust provides has recently been commended by a review of trusts by the Comptroller and Auditor General. As there is an ongoing need for such a board, it is recommended that the group remains, with the usual regular reviews of membership and chairmanship.
8. Fisheries and Marine Resources Panel
The Panel has been in existence since around 1973.
Purpose
In 1973 the panel existed solely for the development of the commercial capture fishery and at that time fell under the remit of the Harbours and Airports Committee.
Further changes to the panel remit took place in 1999 when the Environmental Services Unit came into being. The ESU was the forerunner of the Environment Department and in consequence minds were focussed on those areas of responsibility.
In 2001 the Panel changed in name from Sea Fisheries Advisory Panel to Fisheries and Marine Resources Panel. It was described at that time as being the (fishing) industry’s link to the Committee of Agriculture and Fisheries.
In 2003 a reform of government meant that fisheries moved to the Economic Development Committee (EDC). 4 agriculture industry boards were formed and the panel acted as a fifth board with terms of reference "to advise the EDC and the Agriculture and Fisheries Board". At that time the EDC nominated the chairman of the panel and a member of the panel attended the Ag and Fish Board to represent panel views.
Since 1999 and 2003, further representatives were added from the Jersey Inshore Fishermans Association, the Societe Jersiaise and the fish merchants.
The panel now currently advises the Minister for P&E on marine conservation matters, and also provides a useful advice route to the Minister for ED.
Current Membership
Chairman Mike Taylor
EDD Politician Not yet agreed
Second politician Not yet nominated
Chairman Jersey Fishermen’s Association Don Thompson
Jersey Fishermen’s Association x 2 Nominated for each meeting
Chairman Jersey Inshore Fishermen’s Association Ian Syvret
Chairman Jersey Aquaculture Association Mike Taylor
Boat Owners (Northern Section) Chris Le Boutillier
Jersey Recreational Fishermen/Anglers Peter Gosselin
Jersey Fish Merchants Nathalie Porritt
Jersey Harbours Paul Le Neveu
Marine Section Société Jersiaise Vacant
Directors of the Environment (3) Normally only 1 attends
Marine Resources Section Leader Mike Smith
Marine and Coastal Officer Greg Morel
Fishery Officer (R & D)* Jon Shrives
Fishery Officer (Licensing)* David Yettram
Minute taker Dot Miller
* Only attend if required depending on agenda.
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
The Panel continues to deliver a valuable role in relation to many aspects of marine resource management, making recommendations to the Ministers of both Departments (Environment and Economic Development). For relatively minor resources, the Panel provides a barometer on stakeholder opinion and acts as a two way communications system with those stakeholders. Representatives generally hold meetings with their relevant committees to discuss agenda items prior to each Panel meeting.
The Panel has a more formal role in endorsing or otherwise management measures coming from the Joint Advisory Council established under the Granville Bay Treaty and for providing a first screening stage for applications for aquaculture licences and for recommending appropriate management measures needing regulation.
In the past the Panel has made recommendations and discussed issues relating to commercial aspects of the fishing and aquaculture industries and this has created a perception that the Panel exists for those industries.
In the context of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy the Panel will have an increasingly important role, particularly in respect of the development of marine spatial planning. The Panel does however need a clear mandate which reflects it relationship with the Ministers and other organisations, and reflects a more holistic approach to management of the marine resource and the stakeholders who use it. Matters relating strictly to commercial factors involving the fishing and aquaculture industries should be discussed elsewhere. The Panel is also in need of clear terms of reference, particularly in respect of its membership which needs to reflect a wider set of stakeholders and could include a representative from Scrutiny. Consideration should be given to moving the meetings to a time outside normal working hours as that could allow the attendance of more representative stakeholders.
It is therefore recommended that the panel remains, but is linked to work in the Coastal Zone and especially the Ramsar areas. This would lead to all marine resources and ramsar issues being discussed within the remit of a new single group.
9. Ramsar Management Committee
Purpose
The Ramsar management board was formed in March 2010 and does not currently have a chairman and has a defined membership but members of the public can attend and sit at the table. The primary purpose of the Board is to ensure wise use of the designated areas.
Current Membership
The current membership stands at 28, made up of Constables, politicians, stakeholders and officers.
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
Meetings are generally only attended by a portion of the full membership, in many cases the same individuals who sit on the MRP. Ramsar management plans have been Department driven with very little positive input from the Board. A technical working group established by the Board has been more pro-active and due to its smaller size, able to deliver in specific areas.
It is recommended that many of the functions of the Board could be accomplished by merging with the Marine Resources Panel with the more detailed work being undertaken by a technical working group. Board meetings are generally held of an evening, their cessation would therefore allow the MRP to move to evening meetings with very little impact on officer time.
10. Island Plan Affordable Housing Steering Group
During the debate on the 2011 Island Plan (P.48/2011), the Minister for Planning and Environment set out his intention to establish working groups to review the ability of Island Plan policy –specifically Policy H1: Category A housing sites and Policy H3: Affordable housing – to deliver housing that met the Island’s housing needs[1].
Purpose
The overall purpose of this work is to review whether the Island Plan 2011 makes sufficient provision to meet the Island’s housing needs and is capable of delivering homes to satisfy those needs. In particular, there is a need to focus on the requirement for, provision of and deliverability of homes that meet the needs of those least able to gain access to housing, both to rent and to buy.
In seeking to fulfil this overall purpose, there is a need to specifically address the following matters:
- to consider and review sources of housing supply;
- to consider whether the Plan is sufficiently flexible and robust to deliver homes that meet housing needs over the lifetime of the Plan – in terms of tenure and type - of those least able to gain access to housing, both to rent and to buy;
In particular, this may require a review as to whether the definition of Category A housing appropriately describes the need for housing which the States Assembly wishes to deliver over the Plan period
- to consider and review the practical application of Policy H3, to inform the approval and adoption of supplementary planning guidance that is transparent and as easy as possible to understand and use;
- to consider and review the application of a notional gross development value (NGDV)[2], and to consider the level to which it might be set, to the operation of Policy H3, relative to its impact on the viability of the Island’s housing and development sectors.
In view of the range of issues to be considered, two working groups have been established:
- one focussed on the issues relating to Policy H1 and defined by the purposes 1-2., defined above; and
- one focussed on the issues relating to Policy H3 and defined by the purposes 3-4. defined above
The working groups will report to a political steering group, to be chaired by the Minister for Planning and Environment, Deputy Rob Duhamel.
The findings of the working groups, as reviewed by the political steering group, will be reported to a ministerial board, also chaired by the Minister for Planning and Environment, and comprising the Minister for Housing and the Minister for Treasury and Resources.
Figure 1: Structure of housing needs working groups
Current Membership
Ministerial Board
- Deputy Rob Duhamel (Chair)
- Deputy Andrew Green
- Senator Philip Ozouf
Political Steering Group
- Deputy Rob Duhamel (Chair)
- Senator Philip Ozouf
- Senator Sarah Ferguson
- Deputy John Young
- Deputy Jackie Hilton
- Deputy Tracey Vallois
- Deputy Sean Power
- Deputy Eddie Noel
- Deputy John Le Fondré
- Connétable of St Clement
- Connétable of St Mary
Industry Group
- Michael Cotillard Jersey Construction Council
- David Morris Curry and Brown
- Paul Harding Association of Jersey Architects
- Martin Clancy Dandara
- Peter Seymour The Mortgage Shop
- Andrew Morris Jersey Chamber Commerce/Morris Architects
- Steve Marie Jersey Chamber Commerce
- David Whalley Head of Jersey Chamber of Commerce
- Justin Christie Colin Smith & Partners
- David Parker Pioneer Property Services Ltd
- Neil Sproston States of Jersey Development Company
- John Barratt HSBC
- Andy Fleet Style Homes
- Michael Stein MS Planning
- Martin Holmes Jersey Construction Council
- Tim Kearsey Hotel de France
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
These groups have specific tasks to undertake, following the approval of the 2011 Island Plan, and provide a useful line of communication to politicians and members of the development industry about the progress of work to deliver affordable homes, which is a key political objective for the Minister and the States.
They are focussed on specific tasks, all of which will, at some stage, require referral back to the States. In this respect, they relate well to the terms of reference established for them, and also ensure that key stakeholders remain up-to-date and informed about work that is being carried out to deliver specific objectives.
There are some key milestones, related to the delivery of affordable homes on States-owned land; the review of Category A homes definition; the establishment of a new mechanism to deliver intermediate housing; and the endorsement of SPG to enable the operation of Policy H3 of the 2011 Island Plan; that will define the life of these groups, and which can be used to instigate a review of their continuation, as appropriate.
11. Energy Policy Political Steering Group
Purpose
To bring together key political stakeholders in the development of the Energy Policy
Current Membership
The group was not mandated by MD. It last met in May 2011 to assess the draft Energy White Paper.
Members are the Treasury Minister and the Minister for Economic Development, both of whom have remained in post since the last meeting in May 2011. The Minister for Transport and Technical Services also sits on the groups but the individual is a new incumbent post 2011-election and therefore has not attended a meeting of the group.
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
The group have feed successfully into the development of the energy policy. However a cross departmental approach to developing the policy at officer level has ensured that the relevant themes are all covered.
Therefore the political steering group are not necessarily a pre-requisite for the development of the policy should the Minister wish to receive advice through an alternative route or deal with individual Ministers on a one to one basis.
Political representation should also be considered on a new energy partnership should the Energy White Paper be approved by the States Assembly later in 2012.
12. Waterfront Design Group (WDG)
This was established by Ministerial Decision MD/PE/2008/144 on the 25th September 2008.
Purpose
The Waterfront Design Group was convened at the request of the Minister for Planning and Environment to advise him on the Hopkins Masterplan and in particular, to inject passion and local relevance to the project. It was originally named the Waterfront Façade Group.
The Waterfront Design Group will operate in an advisory capacity to the Minister for Planning and Environment. It has no statutory function but the Minister will take into account the views of the Group, particularly in relation to design.
The membership of the Group has been selected to ensure that wherever possible and appropriate, local relevance forms part of the design concept both in relation to the design and appearance of the buildings and also the provision of open space.
The Group has been selected on the basis of their experience in matters of design, heritage and their commitment to protecting and enhancing Jersey’s built environment.
Current Membership
Mr Roland Anthony
Mr Marcus Binney CBE
Mr Jon Carter
Mr Francis Corbet
Constable Simon Crowcroft
Mr Andre Ferrari
Mr Philip Hewitt Jaboor
Mr Lee Henry
Mr Mike Waddington
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
The principal purpose of this group was to consider matters of design, as it relates specifically to the development of the St Helier Waterfront. It is considered that this function is now well-established and vested in the Jersey Architecture Commission, and that schemes of significance for the St Helier Waterfront would, as a matter of course, be referred to JAC for architectural critique. In this sense, therefore, it is considered that there is no longer a specific need for the continuation of the WDG to consider new development proposals for the St Helier Waterfront. Two of its members are JAC commissioners and other members would be able to submit their own comment, as a matter of course, in relation to new development proposals for the Waterfront.
There may, however, be a number of specific conditions attached to extant consents by the former Minister, where WDG is specifically referred to. The Principal Planner for the Waterfront is seeking to establish the case in this respect. However, if the group ceased to exist, the conditions could not in effect be discharged and this would need to be confirmed by the Planning Authority.
13. Air Quality Steering Group
Purpose
To bring together key political stakeholders in the development of the Air Quality Strategy
Current Membership
The group was not mandated by MD. It last met 10-05-11 to assess the draft Air Quality Strategy.
Members are Deputy Rob Duhamel (Chair), Deputy Judy Martin (Health) both of whom have remained in post since the last meeting in May 2011. Other members included Senator Paul Routier (EDD), Connetable Mike Jackson (TTS) who is no longer in post after the 2011 elections.
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
The group have contributed to the development of the air quality strategy. A cross departmental approach to developing the strategy at officer level has ensured that the relevant themes are all covered.
The strategy and implementation plan are currently the subject of cross departmental discussion to identify a suitable resource plan. Once this has been clarified it may be appropriate to re-convene the political steering group in order to advise on strategic direction and to ensure cross Ministerial support and involvement.
The political steering group are not necessarily a pre-requisite for the further development of the strategy and implementation plan. The Minister has concluded that advice can be received by individual Ministers on a one to one basis.
14. Energy Policy Industry Group
Purpose
To bring together representatives of the Energy industry to discuss key issues like carbon content of energy.
Current Membership
The group was not mandated by MD.
The group has not met since 2010. The group had representatives from Jersey Electricity, Jersey Gas and the 3 petrol retailers, PDJ, Total and Esso.
Assessment against Terms of Reference, and continued need
No continued need, task and finish group - The Department has adopted a position on the carbon content issue following advice from the Carbon Trust following the ASA’s judgement on complaints made by both Jersey Electricity and Jersey Gas in June 2010. It communicated this to the Environment Scrutiny Panel who supported the Department’s approach in September 2010.
The group are able to be engaged in the further development of the energy policy on a one-to-one basis.
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