37 affordable homes approved for St John

Thursday, 16 May 2024 16:16

An affordable homes development project in Sion Village has received the go-ahead from the Planning Department.

Ashbe Construction has proposed the first-buyer-assisted purchase scheme.

The planning committee unanimously approved the plans, with CEO Ben Cairney tweeting that Ashbe worked closely with the team to 'bring this amazing project a step closer to reality'.

The development company first revealed plans in February 2023, with St John's Constable Andy Jehan saying at the time:

"We're really keen for the parish to take ownership of that space so that we can ensure that it is available to the public and that we have a centre for residents at Sion to enjoy as a community."

The village in St John was chosen as a primary area for development as it falls under part of the Bridging Island Plan that was earmarked for assisted purchase housing.

Mr Cairney said in February he hopes if this is successful, it will catalyse more developments in Jersey.

"It's the first re-zoned affordable, assisted purchase scheme to be brought forward, so what I'm hoping is that this will be the benchmark for other schemes to be able to be brought forward.

"They'll be able to see what we've done. There's a blueprint, and the risk will be a lot lower for people to bring them forward."