Government of Jersey publishes Planning Services Review Progress Report

This is the third review led by Jim MacKinnon CBE, former Chief Planner to the Scottish Government, whose independent expertise continues to guide and shape improvements to the system.

This is one of the Government’s CSP priorities to reform the Planning Service to enable sustainable development in Jersey. Over the past 12 months, changes have been made to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness of the Planning Service.

The report details a sustained programme of progress, showing how the Government is delivering a customer-focused planning system that meets the needs of Islanders.

Key Achievements:

1. Enhanced Performance Reporting: The introduction of the Planning Dashboard series and quarterly Planning Performance Reports has increased the availability and frequency of publicly accessible information, giving greater transparency.
2. Stakeholder Engagement: The establishment of the Industry Partnership Board, which now meets bi-monthly, has created positive engagement with planning consultants, house builders, architects, and construction professionals.
3. Management and New Offices: The strengthening of management in Planning Applications, Appeals and Compliance has driven improvements in Planning Services. The move to Union Street has also enabled better collaboration between Government colleagues, within a modern, bright working environment. This has increased staff morale and productivity.
4. Technological Advancements: The RIDA project, aimed at transforming the technology and systems supporting Planning Services, is progressing well. The successful introduction of a new document management system in 2024 has streamlined the handling and processing of planning applications.
5. Performance Data: Significant improvements have been noted in the handling of planning applications, with a marked decline in the number of applications awaiting registration and determination.
6. Enhanced pre-application advice: The continually improving pre-application advice service provides applicants the best chance of success at formal planning application stage, and approval rates have steadily increased due to early engagement with planners.

Deputy Steve Luce, Minister for the Environment, said: “I would like to thank all the staff for the effort they’ve put in over the last 12 months. Their hard work has been key in driving the positive changes we are seeing today.

“There has also been a marked reduction in the number of applications awaiting registration and determination, reflecting an uplift in performance and service delivery.”

Andrew Marx, Head of Development & Land, said: “The progress we have made over the past year is largely down to the dedication and changes made in our team. We continue to be committed to making the service responsive and clear for Islanders.”