27 September 2005
MEDIA RELEASE
The Policy and Resources Committee is holding an information workshop for States members and local interest groups to learn more about the proposals and processes for Waterfront development. The workshop will include presentations from WEB about the scheme and from the Planning Department about the planning process and takes place on Wednesday 7 September. Participants will learn about the key issues surrounding the Waterfront, including WEB’s vision and the timetable for development.
The objectives of the workshop are to:
- Explain WEB’s overall vision and objectives for developing St Helier’s Waterfront and how they relate to Waterfront 2000 and overall States policy;
- Explain the necessary trade-off between the height and scale of the development and the public amenities and benefits;
- Explain the planning process for the development.
Guests will also learn about the initial findings of the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) in its appraisal of the site.
As sponsor of the event, Policy and Resources’ aim is to bring a better understanding of all the issues surrounding the development of St Helier’s Waterfront and to explain how WEB can achieve its task while meeting other States policies. A panel of speakers will include Senator Frank Walker (President of Policy and Resources), David Margason (WEB chief executive), Eric Kuhne (St Helier Waterfront architect), Bill Ogley (P&R chief executive) and Peter Thorne (Director of Planning).
Senator Frank Walker said: "It is vital that people are able to understand fully all of the issues surrounding the Waterfront, especially in the light of recent announcements. P&R’s role has always been to ensure that WEB delivers a waterfront of international appeal which will bring a wide range of social and environmental benefits including open spaces and improved leisure and cultural facilities. I believe that WEB is firmly on course for achieving these goals which are for the benefit of all Islanders.
"The Waterfront is being developed within the context of the Island’s Strategic Plan and Economic Growth Strategy. The Policy and Resources Committee hopes that this workshop will help explain some of the key issues around the proposed development of the Waterfront. It will then be down to WEB and the developers to finalise their plans before they submit applications to the usual open and rigorous planning process."
As well as States members, a broad range of interest and community groups have been invited to attend the workshop.
ENDS
Editor’s notes:
The workshop takes place at St Paul’s Centre on Wednesday 7 September and begins at 9.30 am. A press conference will be held after the workshop closes at 4.00 pm. An outline agenda is attached.
For further information, contact:
Bill Ogley, Policy and Resources Chief Officer. Tel 603401
Senator Frank Walker, P&R Committee President. Tel 603401
gov.je