Shellfish plant site is rejected

Almost 400 people signed a petition against the plant

A company's plans for a shellfish processing plant in Jersey have been rejected for a second time.

Jersey Oyster Company wanted to build the plant on a field near the Seymour slip, where oysters and local shellfish are brought from Grouville Bay.

Planning Minister Freddie Cohen rejected the plans as a result of opposition by residents concerned about potential noise and traffic.

The firm had appealed against a ruling that the project was too big.

Mr Cohen said he would help the company find a more suitable site.

Island Plan

He said the residents' wishes had to be balanced with economic needs.

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

Company director Steve Luce said it was the only site they could find after two years of research.

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