Shellfish plant site turned down

Locally grown oysters and moules would be processed at the plant

A company's plans to build a new shellfish plant in Jersey have been rejected by planners.

Jersey Oyster wants to build on a site in Grouville, but Jersey's Planning Panel has ruled that the project is too big and out of keeping with the area.

The company expressed disappointment at the ruling but said they would make an appeal to the planning minister who could overrule the decision.

Almost 400 people signed a petition against the shellfish processing plant.

Company director Steve Luce said: "We have spent the last two years investigating sites which might be suitable and available. This is the only one we have come up with."

The chosen site was a field near the Seymour Inn, where they would process shellfish including locally grown oysters and moules.

The company also wants to build accommodation for its employees.

Petitioners said the development is too large and may go against the Island Plan which states the countryside will not be built on unless it is absolutely essential.