Despite widespread support, plans for a £13.5 million expansion at Jersey resort Les Ormes have been refused. Concerns of ‘over development’ on green zone land were cited as the reason, but the decision is symptomatic of a wider trend, believes Jersey Hospitality Association’s Simon Soar.
‘A huge amount of work goes into a planning application, especially for something the size of the proposed development at Les Ormes. They had consulted with a lot of different parties and so much thought had gone into getting the details right and ensuring the project would benefit the community, not just themselves.
‘The fact their application has been rejected has really come as a surprise to everyone. It was the general manager of Les Ormes who said that this decision is a massive blow to the island’s tourism industry, and he’s not wrong.
‘We all expected this application to get through without a hitch, in part because of all the support and enthusiasm shown by various bodies throughout the application process. Les Ormes is wonderful asset to tourism on the island and its plans to build an extra 60 self-catering units would not only have benefited visitors but benefitted islanders too.
‘Let’s not forget, the resort is owned by a charitable foundation, and it raises a huge amount of money for local causes. Rejecting its proposed expansion, despite it being recommended for approval, will seriously affect the amount of money it’ll be able to pour back into the community.
‘What concerns the JHA is that this decision is symptomatic of a worrying trend – a total lack of political support for the hospitality industry. It’s yet another example of a situation where much needed support has fallen short.
‘It’s a huge disappointment for Les Ormes – who I spoke to on the phone within minutes of the decision being announced – and it’s disappointing for the industry as a whole. The JHA will fully support the resort with its plans to appeal the decision.’
