14 Aug GRG welcomes additional residential units in town centre
The Guernsey Retail Group welcomes the news that five flats have been created above Clinton Cards in the High Street, along with the additional news that a further 10 flats are being developed above the former Burtons store.
Planning permission has also recently been granted for converting space above shops in the Commercial Arcade, and former office blocks in Le Marchant Street and Rue de Pre, for residential use.
In its recent response to deputies ahead of the July debate on the Tax Reform proposals, the GRG urged the States to treat any work to regenerate St Peter Port town centre and the Bridge not as cosmetic projects, but as economic infrastructure.
The GRG believes this private investment in residential accommodation within the town centre will act as additional economic infrastructure.
GRG Director, Victoria Taylor-Beard said:
“We applaud the work of Kirkwood Properties and other investors who are delivering these projects which we believe will benefit the retail sector, and in turn the wider economy.
“Offering new and refurbished flats within the town centre will add to the vibrancy of our main shopping area, by bringing people together with the many retailers, hospitality businesses, and other facilities available.
“We echo Deputy Inder’s words, as quoted by the Guernsey Press: “A lived in town is a living town”.
“Utilising redundant office and retail space for residential use, and upgrading existing flats, will encourage and allow more people to live in our town centre, adding to St Peter Port as a ‘hub’ for retail, hospitality, events, transport, and tourism.”