Inquiry in favour of new quarter

The Esplanade development would include new homes and offices

A public inquiry into plans for a major development in Jersey's capital, St Helier, has reported back in favour of the scheme.

The Esplanade Quarter would include 400 new homes, a hotel, offices and a public garden.

Some islanders had raised concerns about flooding at the waterside site, the design and its economic viability.

The plans, put forward by Harcourt Developments Ltd, have yet to be given final approval by the States.

The public inquiry, held in October 2008, was conducted by planning inspectors Chris Shepley and Alan Langton on behalf of the Planning and Environment department.

Their report stated: "After listening for a week to arguments... we come down in favour of the proposal.

"We recommend a large number of conditions be attached to both planning approvals but we support the scheme."