Affordable housing scheme in St Martin approved after successful appeal

Plans to build 30 affordable homes on the outskirts of St Martin's Village have been given the green light after an appeal overturned an earlier planning refusal.

The development, at Field MN410 on La Rue des Buttes, was initially rejected by Jersey's former Planning Committee in March 2025. However, the applicant challenged the decision, prompting an independent review.

Planning inspector Nigel McGurk examined the case and recommended that permission should be granted. Acting on that recommendation, Assistant Environment Minister Senator Sir Mark Boleat has now approved the scheme.

According to the Government of Jersey, the key issue during the appeal centred on highway safety. After reviewing the evidence, Mr McGurk concluded that proposed improvements to visibility at the site's entrance would provide safe access for residents and visitors.

The inspector also found the development would bring wider road and access improvements, benefiting all users of the surrounding highway network.

The site was earmarked for affordable housing when it was rezoned under the Bridging Island Plan in 2022.

Planning permission has been granted subject to a number of conditions, as well as the completion of a planning obligation agreement.