Issue 17 Spring-Summer 2025

Spring/Summer 2025

Issue 17

G UERNS EY

PROP E R T Y A ND CONSTRU C TIO N Victoria Park

Work in Progress

Kick off at Guernsey’s new home for football

The latest news from the island’s ongoing projects

Grange House

Industry Updates

Transforming the historic building into a modern surgery

Construction’s key players share their expertise and opinions

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INTRODUCTION

EDITOR Tamara Timothy

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

EDITOR’S LETTER

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W

elcome to the spring/ summer edition of the Guernsey Property and Construction magazine.

With the weather warming up, construction sites around the island will hopefully become pleasanter places to be. And there’s certainly plenty of them at the moment. I always find our ‘work in progress’ section an interesting foreshadowing of what’s to come in the island, and this edition the pages are packed with a wide range of projects.

From the next stage for education at the Guernsey Institute to the major work underway at Creaseys, you’ll find plenty of interest in that section, which starts on page 41.

While the finished form of those projects will no doubt feature in our pages in future editions, this issue we already had plenty of completed developments to choose from.

Our cover star, Victoria Park, has recently opened its gates to footballers and fans for the first time for a major Guernsey FC game. But the stadium is about far more than the island’s top flight team – we found out all about the facilities and the hopes of how they’ll help the community on page 4.

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A community project in a different sense is Queens Road Medical Practice. It recently made its move to Grange House after a complicated journey to renovate the listed property. Now providing a modern,

fit for purpose home for medical professionals and patients, you can read about the project on page 10.

Our industry commentary pages (from page 50) are as packed as usual, with input from a wide range of on and offisland bodies. Locally, the GBTEA has recognised the achievements of the island’s apprentices at its annual awards (on page 56) – congratulations to all the winners. GCF chair John Bampkin’s regular column (on page 57) has a common refrain, a plea to the island’s politicians to listen to the needs of the industry. Like many others, he’ll be keeping a close eye on the upcoming elections for the States of Guernsey, and the attention potential deputies pay to the construction industry.

Finally, in one of our regular profile interviews, I was delighted to catch up with Rihoy & Son’s managing director, Dan Taylor, for this edition. Turn to page 16 to find out more about him and his career – and his thoughts on the industry.

You’ll find plenty more in our pages this issue, and we hope you enjoy it.

Tamara Timothy Editor

Guernsey Property and Construction

1

JASON POWERS CONSULTANTS

Jason Powers Consultants are proud to have provided Quantity Surveying, Project Management and Contract Administration services to the new headquarters of the Guernsey Football Association, forming the new home of Guernsey football.

jpcl.co.uk

+44 (0)1481 723119 contact@jpcl.co.uk

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CONTENTS

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

ISSUE 17 04 Victoria Park Kick off at Guernsey’s state of the art football facility, providing a space for the whole community to enjoy

10 Grange House A new home in a historic building for a busy medical practice, with plenty of challenges along the way

04

16 Dan Taylor The managing director of Rihoy & Son reflects on his time in the industry and his plans for the firm

18 Industry news From planning applications to new appointments, we round up all the industry news in the island

22 Les Bas Courtils A complete makeover has seen it provide modern homes sympathetic to the house’s heritage

28 Wheels & Co A warm welcome at the new Oatlands-based bike shop, with natural materials at the forefront of the design

34 Grange Mews

10

Modern houses in the heart of St Peter Port, the former Ford garage site is unrecognisable from its previous life

38 Ebenezer Derelict for decades, the developer of Brock Road’s Ebenezer Church has overcome a host of obstacles to reopen its doors as modern apartments

41 Work in progress From schools to churches, and restaurants to retail, we have updates on some of the host of ongoing projects around the island

48 Jez Thomas The winner of the ‘Industry Professional of the Year’ award at the Guernsey Property and Construction Awards shares his story

50 Industry updates

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34

From the UK-based CIOB to local groups such as the Guernsey Construction Forum and GOSHA, industry bodies showcase their expertise

60 UnLtd Just in time for summer, the Ron Short Centre based charity has had an outdoor makeover to help its residents enjoy the facilities

Guernsey Property and Construction

3

FEATURE

VICTORIA PARK The new home for Guernsey football has opened its gates at Victoria Avenue in St Sampson’s.

Having its own HQ has been a goal for the Guernsey Football Association for many years, but its new facilities are more than worth the wait. From a professional standard pitch to top class changing rooms – the £10m. stadium has been designed to inspire footballers and fans.

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ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025 and the land was also covenanted by the States as being for sporting and community use. Luckily that aligns completely with what we want to do here. We want people of all ages and all levels to come and make the most of the incredible facility we’ve managed to create.”

Altogether, the project cost around £10m.

It was partly funded by a £1.175m. grant from the Premier League, the FA and the Football Foundation, as well as a £150,000 grant from the Premier League Stadium Fund. Additional funding has come from significant private donations, a Football Association HQ grant and corporate sponsors.

The Guernsey FA was formed in 1893, and is responsible for the largest participation and spectator sport in the island. But despite plans being discussed for decades, it’s taken until 2025 for it to have a permanent home. With Victoria Park open, it now has facilities that more than befit its history.

Rob Jones is the director of Victoria Park and has been involved with the project since 2022. As owner of Aztech and a long-time supporter of the sport in the island, he was well aware of the need for the facility in Guernsey.

With pitches an issue around the island, Rob knew that Victoria Park needed to get it right. The original plans to have a grass pitch, with a 3G training pitch behind the main area, were therefore changed around.

He said the hi-tech 3G pitch that has been installed could be used for those playing at the highest of levels.

“We conducted a lot of due diligence on a number of 3G surface providers and finally settled on Polytan GmbH as the manufacturer. We were impressed with several installations they have done around the UK and Europe, including a top-level professional club in Switzerland who have competed in the Champions League. We wanted a surface which matched the level of investment that has gone into the facility and are delighted with the outcome.”

“We have 10,000 tons of stone and aggregate under the pitch with a permeable drainage system for water to flow through and into the douits. The earth that we removed has gone into bunds on the training pitch to raise its level. On top of the aggregate, a 30mm layer of permeable tarmac allows the water to flow through. Then a 10mm shock pad is topped with 35mm carpet pile, weighted down with sand as a base. The green rubber infill then adds to the grass effect, which we wanted for the aesthetic impact.”

“I’ve been coaching football for more than 30 years, and I was fed up with the state of Guernsey’s pitches every time the weather was bad. When so many games are called off it really starts to affect the health of the sport. I knew this facility could be a gamechanger for local football so I really wanted to be involved.”

With the work that has gone into the pitch, it should last for at least a decade and is guaranteed for 50 hours of play a week with the right footwear. For Rob and the team, getting plenty of people to use it is now the priority.

“Some of the funding for the project was predicated on it being used for the community,

Alongside the international class pitch the stands offer seating for 600 people, with a ground capacity of 3,000. The two buildings on site serve very distinct purposes. The club house, Nutmeg, welcomes fans and guests for a drink or something to eat, while the main building hosts all the necessary facilities. As well as offering much-needed office space for Guernsey FA, there are a number of well-equipped changing rooms, referee rooms, space for physiotherapy and rehab along with toilet facilities.

WE WANT PEOPLE OF ALL AGES AND ALL LEVELS TO COME AND MAKE THE MOST OF THE INCREDIBLE FACILITY WE’VE MANAGED TO CREATE. Rihoy & Son had a design and build contract for the project, which took around two years to complete. Managing director Dan Taylor said, while it’s had its challenges, it’s been a great project for the firm to be involved with: “As a company we’ve got a long history and involvement with football. Most of our local sponsorship and support is focused on two things – youth and sport. That’s very synonymous with what Rob is trying to achieve at Victoria Park so it was a project we were delighted to be involved with.

“When we first started work on the site we needed to do a lot of groundworks to deal with drainage as it gets very boggy in this area in the winter. We therefore spent a lot of time in the ground before we were able to start with the more visible parts of the project. Due to the site conditions everything on the site is piled – from the stands to the scoreboard. Once those were in place, we were able to put ground beams across them Guernsey Property and Construction

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FEATURE

For Rob, it’s been a tough project to get over the line, but one that’s been worth all the effort: “I’m very lucky that I’m in a position to help make this happen, so I feel like I have a duty to the community to try to help. I can see the benefits of this facility for so many members of the community at every level of football.

to form a lattice which we could slab and then build on top.

“From then on it was reasonably straightforward. We put up steel frame buildings with blockwork infills along with a metal roof. They went up fairly quickly which was helpful with the time pressures on the project.”

WE WANT THIS TO ENCOURAGE A PRODUCTION LINE OF TOP-CLASS FOOTBALLERS THROUGH THE ACADEMIES. Those straightforward buildings were designed by architect Andy Merrett of Lovell Ozanne. He said while the buildings are relatively simple, they are carefully considered to be both functional and fitting for their location.

“The buildings were designed to reflect the environment they sit in. The site is just outside of the urban area and does have somewhat of a countryside feel to it. I therefore wanted to reflect that in the design and the materials. The aluminium barrel-vaulted roofs for example relate to agricultural buildings, as well as giving a nod to the neighbouring Bels stand.

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Guernsey Property and Construction

“There are a lot of trees around the site, which add to the rural feel. Using a timber cladding therefore helps tie the buildings into their environment, while also looking attractive. The main block sits on a plinth, which I always like as a concept as it helps the building look rooted to the ground.”

While the buildings have been designed to look good, they have also been carefully considered to be durable and cost-effective.

They are robustly constructed, with exposed blockwork on the inside to withstand the rough use they will no doubt receive from hordes of young footballers.

“We want this to encourage a production line of top-class footballers through the academies. This will offer the chance for them to train properly whenever they want.

But at the other end of the spectrum, we also really want it to be a facility that the community uses simply to have fun. We can hold events and festivals here and our pricing is really competitive, so we hope it will be somewhere that everyone can enjoy.”

FROM DESIGN TO BUILD Rihoy & Son is proud to have delivered Victoria Park - the new home of Guernsey football. Designed and built with expertise and passion, it’s a lasting legacy for the sport and our local community.

rihoy.com

THE CONTRACTORS Rihoy & Son Jason Powers Consultants Lovell Ozanne & Partners CBL Consulting AC Limited Adsum Air Leakage Testing AFM Arena CSE Channel Welders Clarke Door Concrete Solutions Contacta Crown Sports Lockers DW Stonemasons Fifth Elevation Firesafe

Geomarine GFF Hill Trident Interior Systems Lightning Enterprises MB Groundworks

GUERNSEY’S NEW HOME OF FOOTBALL

Mimosa Nick Russell NSP Omnia Pete Fletcher Paul Rouget Petersfield Soft Landscaping

The Mechanical & Electrical Projects Team at AFM are delighted to have been part of the team from day one to deliver this community project.

Call 01481 252111 enquiries@amalgamatedfm.com www.amalgamatedfm.com

Stonebond S&D Salisbury Glass Style Verdellis Taking care of your working environment Bordeaux House, Vale Castle Industrial Estate, Vale, Guernsey, GY3 5TX

Suspended Ceilings Interior systems are proud to have played their part in the construction of Victoria Park to create the new home of Guernsey football.

The team at Petersfield were delighted to be appointed to supply & plant the trees & shrubs at Victoria Park.

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ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

THE CLUB HOUSE Along with the sports facilities, Victoria Park is home to a bar and restaurant on the site.

Known as Nutmeg in a food-related play on the familiar football term, it is being run by well-known local restaurateur Marvin Odillard and his team at Corner Group.

Tom Bourgaize of The Drawing Room was responsible for the interior fit out and design of the new facility for the tenant. Some of the work, including the toilet facilities, had already been completed before his involvement, so his input was focused on the tenant fit out of the restaurant and bar.

“We went for a rather dark theme. When we came in everything was white, and we painted it all black. We used that dark colour to try to disguise some of the services that were in the ceiling. Then we used some Japanese style charred timber cladding, and rusty steel effect tiles on the front of the bar and TV wall as well as wooden flooring. It was all designed to add texture as well as colour to the space.”

Natural, earthy colours were used throughout the restaurant, echoing the agricultural influence of the building design.

With the team aware of how noisy the space might be on a busy football day, acoustics were a priority with the design, as Tom explained: “We put in a very unusual baffle ceiling using ribs of a rigid fabric, which follows the shape of the barrel ceiling. We didn’t want to lose that feature as it’s a key part of the architecture of the building, so we tried to complement it but still allow some of the sound to be absorbed. Hopefully the balance is right and there will be a good atmosphere in there, but you’ll be able to hold a conversation.”

For Rob, the club house has an important role to play in making Victoria Park a destination for everyone: “The space needed to be very multifunctional, as it will be serving many different uses. During the day we hope it’s somewhere that people think to go for a drink or something to eat in a really lovely quiet environment but on match days the furniture will be cleared out to allow plenty of space to get to a busy bar as well as providing a separate hospitality space. On a weekend morning it will be catering to lots of kids wanting a Coke and a burger, but we also hope it will be popular as a space for private hire corporate events.”

The space has therefore been designed to be as flexible as possible. All furniture and planters can be moved to allow for different set-ups depending on the event, while a moveable wall allows part of the club house to be separated off from the rest.

With a tight turnaround time in the final stage of the project, the team was delighted to have the bar and restaurant open for business along with the rest of the Victoria Park project.

THE CONTRACTORS Rihoy & Son The Drawing Room Jason Powers Consultants AFM POS Interiors Smith Signs Auburn Gardens JK Windows Capelles Building Stores R&R Removals Sensible Technology Randalls Taylor Made Planters Ltd Inside Out Contracts Ltd Servaclean

Guernsey Property and Construction

9

FEATURE

GRANGE HOUSE The new home of Queens Road Medical Practice may be geographically close to its former premises, but the facilities are a world away. The complete refurbishment of this listed nineteenth century building has seen it transformed into a modern medical practice – carefully designed to meet the needs of both staff and patients.

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Guernsey Property and Construction

When Queens Road Medical Practice knew they wanted to move to a new building, they had a number of requirements – increased space for medical and administrative staff, improved parking arrangements, and a location that wasn’t too far from their current premises. It was a combination that wasn’t easy to find, but Grange House ticked the boxes.

Brian Tyrrell of Tyrrell Dowinton Architects has been involved with the project from the start, working with the practice to assess potential premises:

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

GRANGE HOUSE: THE HISTORY Its new purpose as a medical facility is the latest in a varied history for the building, and the site.

The Grange House premises was originally built as a private residence.

It then became home to Guernsey’s Ladies’ College, who used the property between 1880 and 1965.

In more recent times it was the Guernsey States Education offices – while the school dentist also operated from the site for a number of years.

In 2020 the States of Guernsey moved out and put the building on the market – the medical practice bought it for £1.56m in May 2022.

“We knew that Queens Road Medical Practice was looking for a new building, so we had been helping them to work out what was feasible. We’d looked at a number of buildings that hadn’t worked for one reason or another. The client then came to us when this was on the market and asked us to look at the viability of it as a project.

“The feasibility study involved considering the number of rooms that would fit in the space; whether they could be made fit for purpose; and if they would suit the staff and patients. We also needed to ascertain how

much car parking could be provided, as that had been a major issue in their Queens Road property.”

With the architect and client in agreement that the listed site could be a good option, they approached planners to apply for a change of use. When that was granted, the medical practice bought the property in May 2022.

Once the property had been purchased, there was no delay in starting work to turn the dilapidated listed building into a medical practice fit for the future.

MORE OF THE HISTORY OF THE HOUSE REVEALED ITSELF AS WORK CONTINUED – WITH WELLS FOUND IN THE BASEMENT AND IN THE GROUNDS, AND MULTIPLE PERIOD FEATURES SUCH AS FIREPLACES HIDDEN THROUGHOUT THE BUILDING. Main contractor Ravenscroft had also been involved from the early stages of the project, assessing premises and helping build up and budget for the final scheme. With permission granted, they quickly started demolition on site.

Site manager Elliott Corbin was on board from that stage, and said it was immediately obvious that it would be a challenging project: “Everyone had taken an educated guess at the state of the building, but once we started stripping it out it became clear that it was a bigger project than we could have realised. There had been so many piecemeal repairs to the building over the years that there were layers of work to deal with. We would take a ceiling down and find another one behind it, and then another one. We would knock a wall open and find features such as 200-year old range ovens that needed to be assessed by heritage.”

More of the history of the house revealed itself as work continued – with wells found in the basement and in the grounds, and multiple period features such as fireplaces hidden throughout the building. For Elliott and his team it was a balance to retain Guernsey Property and Construction

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FEATURE THE BUILDING HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO ALLOW FOR THE NEW FRONT ENTRANCE AND THE SIGNIFICANT PHARMACY AREA, AND THOSE MODERN ADDITIONS HAVE BEEN KEY TO THE DESIGN. modern surgery. Brian explained what has been done: “The building has been extended to allow for the new front entrance and the significant pharmacy area, and those modern additions have been key to the design.

“We wanted to add in new elements while respecting the history of the building.

This is the next stage in its story and that should be clear when you look at it. Our approach with the extension was to be very sympathetic to the existing building, but make the new additions very obviously modern. For that to work, it was important to choose the right materials and colours.

We also very purposefully used full height glazing in those areas – we wanted the original building to be clearly seen behind the extension. The idea was of an almost transparent entrance which doesn’t detract from the old property.”

and protect items of historic importance while still proceeding with the job: “It was fascinating but it made it very tricky from a budgeting and programme perspective.

We would have allocated a certain amount of time to something, but the amount of issues we were finding obviously caused delays so we were always trying to deal with that.”

The strip-out programme eventually took around six months to be completed, with work extending beyond the initial remit, as quantity surveyor James Ravenscroft explained: “When we first looked at the building, we could only survey what we could see. Once we started work and could expose the structure, we realised

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Guernsey Property and Construction

it was going to be more problematic than predicted. When we took all the existing plaster off the walls, we realised how damp the building was.

“We ended up taking the building back to its external granite walls so the timber and damp proofing subcontractors could do a thorough job. It was a costly and challenging aspect of the project, but the client now knows that the building is going to be watertight and without damp issues for a long time to come.”

The fabric of the old building is not the only part to have seen significant changes.

Its external appearance has evolved considerably to meet the needs of the

Behind that entrance, the building that was the main house has been transformed into a modern fit-for-purpose surgery.

There are 18 consulting rooms and a bespoke space dedicated to minor operations. A new educational space and a dedicated social prescribing and counselling suite complete the offering, along with a modern administrative hub in the former chapel. Planning permission was granted for apartments on the upper floors, which are now accessed from La Couperderie, while the new pharmacy sits alongside the older building.

While the space has been designed to suit modern requirements, the team ensured that the listed building still retained its character and charm, as James explained: “We preserved as much as we could. We kept the Victorian floor tiles where possible, and the Victorian panelling and timber work in the main chapel area. Most of the original timber windows were restored and repaired, which was a significant job. Where we found elements that were difficult to retain because of the use of the building, we covered them up so they sit behind the new work but are still there to be rediscovered and their story told again in the future.”

Respecting the past, building the future.

We're proud to have transformed Grange House into Queens Road Medical Practice's new state-of-the-art facility, respecting the building's history while creating spaces that will serve the island for years to come. Our experience with rejuvenating Guernsey's historic buildings means we ensure quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail in every project.

01481 233109 | enquiries@rcl.gg

FEATURE

Brian’s design included the use of materials that would also be in keeping with the building’s history: “Outside, we repointed the granite using natural lime renders on the whole of the building to ensure it could breathe. We also used more traditional materials such as lead instead of modern materials as they will sit better with the building and be more long-lasting.”

Now the work is finished, it is a project the team is delighted with. For Elliott, seeing the difference it will make to staff and patients was the real reward: “As the work progressed we had regular walks around the site with the clients and the practice staff. It was wonderful to see how excited they were about the building and the facilities. We’re really proud of it as a project – both the work we’ve done and how we successfully managed to get the client in on time. Now it should provide a real benefit to the community.”

For Brian, the project means that Queens Road Medical Practice team has made a significant contribution to the island beyond its remit to help patients: “The building is of historic importance but it was empty and deteriorating. It needed investment and care, and the practice has given it that. Now it’s been renovated and refurbished it should stand strong for another century. That’s fantastic for the island’s heritage.”

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THE CONTRACTORS Tyrrell Dowinton Architects

Lightning Enterprises

Ravenscroft Construction

Link

Henderson Green

Ounsworth – Envirograf

DLA Engineers

P B Fletcher

WT Partnership

Phase Electrical Contractors

Bob Froome & Sons

Prime Paving & Groundworks

Guernsey Gardens

Quantum Cabling

DWA Flooring

Salisbury Glass

DW Stonemasons

Sarnian Roofing

A C Limited

SMT JLEP

Access With Ease

Stainless Steel Fabrications

Acre Lifts

The Drill Squad

Arborcraft ASR

Timber & Damp Proofing Specialists

Channel Welders

Aura Sound Testing

DW Stonemasons

Tarmac Services

Formula Scaffolding

Lotheringtons

GH Interiors

Island Access

Keiran O’Brien

Smith Signs

Duquemin & Ozanne Plumbing – Heating – Bathrooms – Tiles

INTERVIEW

DAN TAYLOR As managing director of Rihoy & Son, Dan Taylor has responsibility for a wide range of construction projects across the island. He’s been at the firm during a period of remarkable growth, and whilst it’s been involved in some of Guernsey’s most recognised recent projects. Now in position for two years, and the first non-Rihoy to hold the role in the company’s 100year history, he shared his path to where he is today and why the industry motivates him daily.

Like many others, Dan’s career path came about through a series of fortunate coincidences. Following his schooling at Elizabeth College, he went to the University of Portsmouth to study business and development without a clear idea of what he wanted to do. When it was time for a placement year in industry, an opportunity came up that would set the course for his career.

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Guernsey Property and Construction

“It was an uncertain time during the 2008 financial crisis and a lot of companies in the UK stopped their placement programmes. I therefore decided to come home and work for a local firm. I’d always had an interest in property so applied for a role at a property development and investment company.

“The firm was in the process of developing several interesting sites, so the role was really varied, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

After that placement year, they offered me a job following my degree.”

With the UK economy still tumultuous, Dan decided to take the role – spending five years appraising developments, working with architects on proposed schemes, and liaising with contracting teams on live projects.

“That experience gave me a great overview of the business and investment aspects of the firm as well as property development, which I think has stood me in good stead during my career.”

With that knowledge base and experience behind him, it was perhaps unsurprising that Dan was attracted to other parts of the industry. When Gavin Rihoy approached him with a job offer, Dan decided to cross the fence from the client to the contracting side of the industry.

“I started at Rihoy’s as a project manager in 2013, taking care of projects from £500,000 to £3m. After some time in that role, I started and grew our bespoke projects department for projects under £500,000, before becoming projects director in 2017. From there I became more involved with running

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025 the business side of the company rather than managing individual projects.”

In 2023, Gavin Rihoy became chair of the firm – and Dan stepped into his shoes as managing director. Two years on, it’s a role he says he’s relishing.

“I like the variety of it. I’ve always had an interest in both business management and construction and property – so this is the perfect combination of the two. I enjoy seeing projects progress and their physical result, but I get just as much satisfaction from the running of the business.”

Dan says his role is very much people focused, and an engaged team across the board is clearly something that’s important to him.

“A lot of my time is spent on people-related matters; we have a wide-ranging team with differing needs and wants. I can be speaking with trades and teams on site one moment; architects, engineers, and subcontractors the next; and then the same day meeting with clients, our senior management and our Board.

“Rihoy’s has more than 250 people across our office locations and out on building sites, so it’s not easy to regularly speak with everyone face to face. From a company culture point of view, it’s something I’m very aware of. I want everyone to feel part of the team, and to know what we stand for as a firm.

“A definition of company culture I like is, ‘culture is the result of what we do when others are looking and also not looking”, and I’d like to think the answers would be positive and consistent within the company. Since taking on the managing director role, I’ve had

a real focus on better communication. I want everyone in the company to know what we’re up to and feel they are playing their part in it.”

As part of that, Dan has introduced a set of three company values – which he hopes new joiners and established staff alike will relate to.

“They came out of Board discussions early on, where I was trying to distil the essence of the company. It came down to three values – energy, care and competence. The energy aspect is straightforward – we want people to have some drive and motivation to get things done. We think care is about doing things right – having an attention to detail beyond day-to-day responsibilities. Competence again is self-explanatory. We want technical competence at every level. Without that, we can’t do anything well.”

And Dan certainly wants to do things well.

When asked about his goals as managing director, it’s not particular projects or specific personal achievements he talks about but a more general aspiration for the firm.

“My aspiration is to effect continual improvement, to always have things better than when I started. If I set myself specific goals, what do I do when I reach them? I don’t ever want to stop trying to improve.

“That has always been my general ethos, and it’s become even more important in this role. I can obviously apply it at any stage to assess myself, and I do that – but hopefully the firm and the people will speak for themselves as to whether I’ve achieved it.”

Part of this is attracting the next generation into construction. Dan is enthusiastic about roles in the industry at all levels and speaks

A PROJECT TO REMEMBER Dan has been involved in some of the island’s major projects during his time at Rihoy’s, but one he’s particularly proud of isn’t a large office building or impressive residential property.

“The project that sticks in my memory is the Cobo Community Centre [pictured]. I was the project manager for it in 2015 and I still really like it. It’s settled into its environment so well – ten years on it still looks and feels like a very modern building.

I also loved the story behind it – it was such a community effort to get it built, and now it benefits so many islanders.”

about how a career in construction gives a daily sense of achievement, with a result you can see for years to come.

“I don’t think many secondary students think about the construction industry as a career. Whilst there may be a number who take the trade route, and a career with a craft has many benefits, that is not the only path. There are many local academic opportunities in construction, from quantity surveying to site engineering, and building surveying to architecture. The rewards of a role that combines time in the office with time out on site are not to be underestimated.”

Whilst the benefits of seeing the physical results of the work you are involved in are great, Dan knows it is exactly that which will always invite opinion.

“The output of our industry is there for all to see, it’s physical and not numbers on a screen, which means it will always be a high topic of conversation across the island.

“The island’s ongoing focus on housing will bring it even more into the spotlight, but that focus needs to be not only on one segment of housing but all brackets, together with a stronger and consistent infrastructure investment plan that’s seen through and delivered.”

Only two years into his managing director role, Dan clearly has plenty more to come.

Guernsey Property and Construction

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INDUSTRY NEWS

CCD promotes new associates Laura studied at the University of Bath, completing her qualification as a chartered architect in 2009. Before moving to Guernsey, she worked for ten years in a Bath-based practice specialising in restoration, conversion and alteration of historic properties. She has experience across a wide range of sectors and an indepth understanding of protected buildings in Guernsey.

CCD has announced the appointment of two new associates to strengthen its leadership team. Laura Sebire and Charlie Hodder have both been promoted to the role at the firm.

Charlie Hodder studied architecture at Portsmouth University, becoming a chartered architect in 1999. Before moving back to Guernsey, he worked in Los Angeles and then in London, where he built his knowledge and skills as a collaborative

designer. He has a wealth of experience in delivering creative solutions for complex projects and, since returning to Guernsey, has designed numerous private houses around the island.

CCD managing director Stuart Pearce said: “We’re delighted to announce the promotion of Laura Sebire and Charlie Hodder to associates at CCD. Laura and Charlie, both chartered architects, have been integral in the success of the team in recent years and their expertise, dedication and enthusiasm are highly regarded by clients. We’re excited to see the fascinating CCD projects they will develop in the years ahead.”

Local architect designs bank notes The designs of Guernsey-based architect Natasha K HE have been chosen to feature on the island’s new bank notes.

The new notes will be launched in 2027, designed to capture the island’s unique culture, history and identity.

The front of each bank note will feature designs by two artists, Hayley Mallett and Rachael de la Mare – while the back will feature Natasha’s designs.

Natasha said: “Before 2022, I lived in cosmopolitan and metropolitan cities: Shanghai, Guangzhou, Guiyang, Paris, and Manchester. In November 2022, I was presented with two great options. One was to continue my career in urban design and architecture at an international firm in

Rotterdam, the other was to explore a new opportunity in Guernsey. I am thrilled to have chosen Guernsey, as it has won my heart and inspired by creative vision.

“I joined the competition to tell a story about the magical “Granite Rock” in the Channel Islands. Through my designs, I sincerely aim to let the world know about and appreciate this beautiful island.

Drawing on my background in urban design and architecture, I approached the designs from a fresh perspective. The layout is asymmetrical, promoting free movement and energy. Guernsey granite texturing was incorporated into the designs for consistency.”

The designs themselves are still being finalised before they will be handed over to currency specialists, De La Rue, to produce.

The Drawing Room expands team Tom Avery-Wright has joined The Drawing Room as an architectural assistant.

Tom brings two years of architectural experience in Guernsey and holds a degree in Architecture from the University of Plymouth.

“Tom’s strong design skills, passion for 3D modelling, and keen eye for visual storytelling will be a great asset to our team,”

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said Rachel Rogers, director at The Drawing Room. “We look forward to supporting his professional growth as he develops his technical expertise with us.”

Tom will be working across The Drawing Room’s client portfolio in Guernsey including residential renovations and extensions, new builds, multi-residential schemes and commercial projects.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

Randalls bought by local investment consortium as well as owning and managing more than 20 pubs, restaurants, hotels and shops across Guernsey, Alderney and Sark, has been sold for an undisclosed sum to CI Hospitality Limited, a group of local investors.

Randalls has changed ownership for only the second time in its 157-year history.

Randalls was established in 1868 and owned by the Randall family until 2006 when it was sold to a group of investors, some of whom were based in Guernsey. The business was put up for sale in 2024 and a new consortium of local investors was brought together by Ravenscroft Capital Limited.

The group, which brews, distills and supplies some of the Bailiwick’s most popular drinks,

Randalls owns and manages The Rockmount, La Reunion, Slaughterhouse,

Prince of Wales and The Imperial, all of which have seen significant investment under the old owners. It also manages the Bel Air in Sark.

Randalls’ managing director Matt Polli said it was an exciting time for the company: “Our new owners have made it very clear that they want to see Randalls continue to grow and thrive and that they are excited to build on the investment that has happened in recent years. They have local knowledge, a passion for the community and understand how to run a business in the Bailiwick and I am looking forward to working with them.”

Duke of Richmond sold to Guernsey group added it to a portfolio which already includes the Peninsula Hotel, the Fleur du Jardin and Les Douvres.

Red Carnation has retained ownership of the Old Government House Hotel, which it says it intends to invest in.

Jonathan Raggett, chief executive officer, said the sale would herald an exciting new chapter for that property: “As Guernsey’s first and only five-star hotel, the Old Government House is set for a significant renovation that will elevate its legacy and set a new standard for luxury on the island.”

The Duke of Richmond Hotel in St Peter Port has been sold to Guernsey company The Little Big Hotel Group for an undisclosed fee.

The four-star hotel was previously owned

by Red Carnation Hotels, who purchased it in 2011. The Little Big Hotel Group has

The Duke of Richmond Hotel will be open for the summer season under its new ownership while they consider any future changes.

Landlord legislation passed The primary focus is on improving health and safety in residential accommodation, with dwellings having to be free from hazards and meeting basic minimum standards.

Owners who allow a property to fall below those standards will also face penalties.

The new register will act as a record of all those who need a licence.

The States has agreed to bring in new minimum standards for private rented accommodation under legislation proposed by the Committee for the Environment and Infrastructure.

Landlords will need to be registered under the new rules, which promise more protections for tenants – including a ban on overcrowding.

A sursis put before the States to delay the debate was rejected by the House, who voted to introduce the legislation despite some deputies raising concerns the increased costs would be passed on to those renting the properties.

Guernsey Property and Construction

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Proposals for Guernsey’s waste disposal and water storage The Committee is recommending that Black Rock, a potential land reclamation site adjacent to Griffiths Yard, be used for inert waste disposal, and Les Vardes Quarry be used for freshwater storage.

The Committee for the Environment and Infrastructure has published proposals to meet the island’s future inert waste disposal and water storage needs.

The identification of a future inert waste disposal site has become an urgent issue in recent years, as the previously approved disposal site could not progress and the existing land reclamation site at Longue Hougue has reached capacity. A decision on the island’s future water supply solution is also required so that key infrastructure planning can begin.

Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, president of the Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure, said: “This is an opportunity to invest in our infrastructure, not just to support our immediate needs but also to ensure we put the foundations in place to meet some of Guernsey’s most basic needs in the longer-term. As islanders, we’re all keenly aware of the importance of sound water management and drought resilience, and people also understand the vital importance of the construction industry at a time when housebuilding in particular is more important than ever.”

Final draft Local Planning Brief submitted independent Planning Inspector. Having considered the recommendations, the DPA has submitted a final draft LPB to the States.

The Development & Planning Authority (DPA) has published the final draft Local Planning Brief (LPB) for the St Peter Port and St Sampson Harbour Action Areas.

The LPB will provide a valuable framework to help to coordinate development in these areas, maximising the positive potential to deliver economic, social and environmental benefits over the next 10 years.

The LPB proposes 18 new policies which will apply to the Harbour Action Areas.

These are grouped within six development themes including resilient harbours and infrastructure, supporting the marine sector to provide job and leisure opportunities, and new uses and activities.

Deputy Victoria Oliver, president of the DPA, said: “This Local Planning Brief is an integral element of the States of Guernsey’s objective to encourage investment in coordinated development along the east coast. The LPB will inform, guide and influence planning decisions as well as public and private sector thinking while enabling the private sector to identify appropriate opportunities for investment and working in partnership with the States of Guernsey.”

Public consultation took place as part of a formal inquiry process led by an

Derelict premises targeted to improve the condition of their land where the DPA considers that there is a significant negative effect on the appearance of the area. These notices cannot be served on people’s homes or gardens.

Derelict premises in town and redundant visitor accommodation are among the types of buildings and land that can now be served a civil notice by the Development & Planning Authority (DPA) to improve the appearance of an area.

The notice can be served on landowners and occupiers to require them to take steps

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A similar process is already in place in England and Wales to bring improvement and regeneration to an area. This has come into effect after the States approved the policy letter in March 2023 and the necessary legislation in December 2024.

Deputy Victoria Oliver, president of the DPA, said: “We live in a charming island with golden beaches, stunning views and rich history everywhere you go, but sadly

Guernsey is also home to a number of sites which spoil its beauty. I’m not talking about buildings which might be in need of a fresh lick of paint or a property in need of minor repairs, I’m talking about the real blots on our landscape which we are all too well aware of.

“For the first time, we are now able to issue an improvement notice to rectify the problem, bringing revitalisation to certain areas of our island and preventing the creation of eyesores in the future.

We will do this sparingly and proportionately where there is a significant impact on the appearance of an area to bring the greatest benefit to our beautiful island.”

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

Further proposals for the Island Development Plan The DPA has also proposed the extension of L’Aumone local centre to include Perruque House and King Edward VII Hospital brownfield sites, which are expected to be regenerated as a care village.

The Development & Planning Authority (DPA) has published its revised Island Development Plan (IDP) amendments, which make use of brownfield sites, including States-owned sites, and redundant glasshouses for housing.

Based on the latest housing need indicators, the DPA is proposing to allocate eight new sites for affordable housing.

Of the eight, which replace the previous six sites proposed in June 2024, three are in a proposed new local centre at Vazon, with one in the main centre of St Peter Port and one in each of the local centres at St Martin, Forest, St Pierre du Bois and L’Islet. This provides a more even spread of housing allocations across the island while still complying with the States-agreed approach of allocating new housing within or adjacent to main and local centres.

Deputy Victoria Oliver, president of the DPA, said: “Since we published our proposed changes to the IDP in June last year, we’ve received a lot of feedback and been given new information regarding what landowners are willing to use their sites for which significantly affects our proposals. We have now agreed with P&R that some Statesowned brownfield sites which weren’t previously available for consideration, can now be used to meet the land supply for affordable housing.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that there is enough land available for housing in the medium-term, therefore, having listened carefully to the feedback and carried out further extensive research, we believe these proposals provide a sensible, pragmatic and balanced solution.”

New plan for Phase Two works at PEH The Committee for Health & Social Care believes if changes are made it can deliver 80% of the benefits of Phase 2, Our Hospital Modernisation, at a cost that is more in line with the amount already agreed by the States Assembly.

The value engineering exercise concluded that Phase 2 could be split into two phases: Phase 2A and Phase 2B. Phase 2A would deliver approximately 80% of the overall benefits, at an estimate of £130m, with Phase 2B delivering the remaining 20% at a later date when funding is available.

Phase 2A, predominantly new build construction, includes increased surgical capacity, providing a greater level of resilience to meet the demand for healthcare over the next 30 years and beyond. Phase 2B consists mainly of refurbishment of areas such as the Emergency Department, orthopaedics, and overnight accommodation.

Deputy Al Brouard, president of the Committee for Health & Social Care, said: “The Committee is resolute of the need to press ahead with this investment, which remains essential if we are to have any chance of meeting the long-term care needs of our community.

Phase 2 remains fundamental to providing resilience for the range of health and social care services that will be needed for our ageing population and with demands ever-increasing.”

Guernsey Property and Construction

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FEATURE

LES BAS COURTILS Turning a landmark listed house into modern apartments was at the centre of this new development, which also encompasses a renovated barn and new build properties.

The St Sampson’s project provided plenty of challenges, but the developers and owners are delighted with the new homes.

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ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

Royal Visit made by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, on 7 June 1945.

ALTHOUGH THE ENTIRE SITE WAS LISTED, THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR WAS TO RETAIN THE FRONT ELEVATION. WE THEREFORE MADE SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS TO THE HOUSE BUT MADE SURE THE FAÇADE WAS RETAINED. A dilapidated protected house; a derelict protected outbuilding; and plans for additional new build homes – the development at Les Bas Courtils was always going to come with plenty of challenges. Fortunately for developer Infinity Construction, it was one they relished.

Director Andy Stuart said it was an unusual project for the firm, who tend to focus on new build developments: “We have dealt with a few listed buildings previously, but this was quite different to what we’re used to – that’s what made it such an interesting project for our team to work on.

It certainly required a more varied skillset – and while there were frustrations along the way, there was a lot of job satisfaction in taking a neglected building and putting it back together to provide comfortable modern homes.”

James Gavey of JG Architecture was responsible for the design of the project.

He needed to retain the features of the landmark property, while ensuring it was fit for the future: “Although the entire site was listed, the most important factor was to retain the front elevation. We therefore made significant improvements to the house but made sure the façade was retained. Dormer windows were added and the chimneys were lowered for structural reasons as they were unstable – but aside from that, everything has been retained as it was. Les Bas Courtils looks much how it always has, but in significantly better condition.”

Guernsey Property and Construction

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FEATURE

The house itself has now been divided up into five apartments while the original barn was converted to a house, and four new build houses were also constructed at the rear of the property. Altogether, the site yielded 10 new accommodation units, ranging from a one-bedroom loft-style studio apartment at the top of the original house to two-bedroom modern houses.

For James, the challenge was to keep the separate elements cohesive on the site, respecting the original house plus the new neighbouring development, Sycamore Avenue: “We tied the new builds into the Sycamore Avenue site through the materials and finishes used. We kept them sympathetic to the area and fairly simple, using render and millboard as on those other properties. The rear of the site, where those houses sit, isn’t visible from the main road so there was more flexibility from a planning point of view.

“We then echoed the main house with the fenestration patterns throughout the development, which helped to tie them together. Finally, the communal garden element gave a main focus to the site.”

While the new-build houses were straightforward to construct, work on the main house and barn was far more complicated. Both were protected buildings, with the outbuilding in very poor condition.

Andy added: “The barn was a complete ruin so we needed to completely renovate and rebuild that. While protected, it wasn’t habitable so we retained the original stonemasonry but were able to put on a new roof and install new windows without any issues.”

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WE ENDED UP GOING RIGHT BACK TO THE BARE BONES OF THE HOUSE, BUT AT THE SAME TIME WE NEEDED TO PRESERVE ALL THE HISTORIC ELEMENTS. The very poor condition of the barn meant it was, in a way, much simpler to deal with than the main house. There, the initial work led to a constant stream of surprises as the true extent of the work needed became clear to Andy and his team: “It was a bit of a can of worms to be honest. Every time something looked ok, we would open it up and it would be rotten and we’d need to do more than we initially planned. We ended up going right back to the bare bones of the house, but at the same time we needed to preserve all the historic elements.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

“We were very careful as we went through the house to carefully remove, store and label all the joinery that we needed to protect. We kept a container on site with those elements, and then replaced them piecemeal as and when the programme dictated. The process took a lot of time and effort, but it ensured that the house retained its character and period features, while being perfectly suited to modern living.”

and first floors as well as a studio at the very top. While the planners agreed to it, James explained that they needed to consider the design carefully: “Even a relatively small detail such as the size of the new captain’s dormer window on the front elevation had to be justified as in keeping with the original construction date of the house. But all those small details have played a part in the end result.”

While as much of the original features and construction as possible were retained and restored, there were clearly areas where replacement wasn’t optional. The initial plan had been to keep the original windows, but their poor condition meant that brand new ones had to be sourced. These were bespoke and handmade in the UK to ensure the appearance of the house changed as little as possible.

For Andy, there was certainly a balance to find between respecting the history of the house but also making it suitable for modern living: “There was an interesting juxtaposition between planning and heritage on one side and building control on the other. While we needed to retain the period features of the house, we were also required to comply with modern building standards – as well as our firm’s ethos of creating a quality product that owners will enjoy living in. The construction process was therefore very robust with this property. We put an internal steel frame in the house to stiffen the building as well as ComFlor between the ground and first floors. It was a significant addition to the project, but it ensured that we could meet all of our sound proofing standards as well as having excellent fire protection.”

On the roof, around half of the existing Welsh slate tiles were able to be salvaged.

Infinity then worked closely with the roofing contractor to find similar tiles that would co-ordinate well enough with the original roof. At the front of the house, the ornate railings were removed and taken off site to be restored to their former glory.

As part of the development, an extra floor was created in the attic space with a loft conversion. The house is now home to five apartments – two on each of the ground

None of that vital work will be particularly apparent to those looking at the house, or even living in it. The exterior of the house

THERE WAS AN INTERESTING JUXTAPOSITION BETWEEN PLANNING AND HERITAGE ON ONE SIDE AND BUILDING CONTROL ON THE OTHER. WHILE WE NEEDED TO RETAIN THE PERIOD FEATURES OF THE HOUSE, WE WERE ALSO REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH MODERN BUILDING STANDARDS. Guernsey Property and Construction

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FEATURE

will be familiar to most islanders, who will have driven past the prominent east coast location. But its appearance has changed in one important way, and not just because of its improved condition.

Its previous sand and cement render has been replaced with lime, as James explained: “We had a lot of conversations with the planning department regarding this, and the conservation officers were very keen that the house had a lime render in keeping with its period. Lime provides protection and waterproofing, but also allows the walls to breathe. The house

previously had significant issues with moisture so this will deal with that, while respecting its age and aesthetics.”

With the project complete and all properties sold, Andy was able to reflect on what’s been achieved: “We’re very proud of what we’ve created there. It’s been a really successful project, especially considering the challenges we faced. But we’ve rehabilitated a building that was important to the island, but was falling apart. Now we’ve protected it so that it will be standing there for another century. It’s great to feel that we’ve contributed to the island in that way.”

THE CONTRACTORS Infinity Construction Ltd JG Architecture Ltd

Cliff Eborall Roofing GH Interiors

CBL Consulting Ltd

Jay Newsom & Brad Matthews Plastering

Jamie Ferbrache Construction

Ecoscreed

Mark Culverwell Carpentry Matt Brouard Carpentry TNT Stonemasons Guernsey Metals Island Electrics Eco Installations Window Service Centre Sarnian Roofing

Prime Scaffolding Timber and Damp Proofing Specialists P3 Facades and Interiors Carlos Crowson Decorating Foulon Joinery Greg Forino Flooring

PROJECT COMPLETE We are proud to have been lead designers and technical support for Les Bas Courtil House and the surrounding development.

Guernsey Gardens T Lowe

info@jga.gg 01481 245767

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Guernsey Property and Construction

MORE TO ZINC THAN MEETS THE EYE

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www.gsymetalroofing.com

FEATURE

WHEELS & CO The latest addition to the Oatlands complex, Wheels & Co was determined that its premises would offer a warm welcome to its customers. As the island’s newest bike shop, the owners wanted to do something different with its design – with an approach inspired by its rustic surroundings.

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Guernsey Property and Construction

When owners Matt and Sue Joyce initially started planning the premises for their new bike shop, it was on a rather smaller scale than the showroom they eventually opened. But when the opportunity came up to expand the site from the start, they said it was one they couldn’t resist: “Our original plan was to open a shop half the size of this, in the former Cadeaux toy shop area. But as we were planning that, we were given the opportunity to take the soon to be vacated adjoining unit.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

FROM THE START, MATT AND SUE WERE CLEAR THAT THIS NEEDED TO BE A VERY WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT, WHERE PEOPLE WOULD FEEL HAPPY TO JUST POP IN FOR A BROWSE OR TO SIMPLY HANG OUT AND GRAB A COFFEE WITHOUT FEELING THE PRESSURE TO BUY SOMETHING EVERY TIME. The Oatlands location also played a significant part in the approach to the design of the new space. The rustic charm that has been cultivated in the complex meant that Wheels & Co would need to move away from the more industrial look common to many other bike shops. Luckily for Matt and Sue, they knew how they wanted it to look – and feel.

“We had intended to start small with just a workshop and minimal sales area, but it seemed too good an opportunity to pass up.

So we jumped in with both feet, planned for a much larger operation from the start – and here we are.”

Where they are was also a key part of the appeal when it came to the site. Retail space suitable for a bike shop isn’t easily come by in Guernsey – and the more Matt and Sue considered the Oatlands area, the better it seemed for them.

“We didn’t originally choose the site because it was suitable for cycling, but quickly realised it was perfect. There is a one-way cycling area around here so it’s quite bike orientated; there is easy car parking for anyone not arriving by bike; there is a school nearby; and of course you have lots of parents going past on their way to the play area. Passing trade isn’t a common feature for many of the island’s bike shops, so that footfall was a major appeal.”

“Our approach to the design was certainly influenced by Oatlands and wanting to be in keeping with the thatched roof and granite walls in the development. We also wanted to differentiate ourselves from the existing bike shops in the island – our brands and our vibe is different so we wanted to reflect that.”

Attaining that look was going to take time, effort and expertise, so interior architectural designer Sophie Bynam of A7 Architecture was brought in to guide the process.

“From the start, Matt and Sue were clear that this needed to be a very welcoming environment, where people would feel happy to just pop in for a browse or to Guernsey Property and Construction

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FEATURE

simply hang out and grab a coffee without feeling the pressure to buy something every time,” said Sophie. “We wanted it to feel relaxed and warm, while also doing something interesting with the design.”

With that brief, combined with the Oatlands location, Sophie turned to the use of natural materials throughout the project.

“There is nothing plastic or fake in there, which always plays a large part in how I like to design. I think when you use natural, authentic materials you can instinctively tell the difference in how a premises feels. In Wheels & Co we’ve used a real wooden floor as it gives off a lot more warmth than a vinyl alternative. I also sourced a natural dried moss sign of the company’s logo, which is a standout feature, and a bit of a talking point in the shop.

“We wanted the project to be as sustainable as possible, so we reused anything we could in the existing building, in particular there was a lovely granite wall which we were able to use as a feature.”

The work onsite was carried out by contractor J Meerveld & Sons. Director Brent Meerveld was involved from the very start of the project and saw it develop from its initial smaller scale plan to the offering open today.

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“When the shop expanded from the original toy shop building to include the former florist, it clearly impacted on the size and length of the project,” said Brent. “We first had to wait for the neighbouring business to move out of the second space, and then we needed to complete structural work to make the shop one rather than two units with an opening between them. However, the project went very much to plan; the most challenging part was making sure we had the correct materials and completing the project as quickly as possible so the team could start trading.”

I THINK WHEN YOU USE NATURAL, AUTHENTIC MATERIALS YOU CAN INSTINCTIVELY TELL THE DIFFERENCE IN HOW A PREMISES FEELS. IN WHEELS & CO WE’VE USED A REAL WOODEN FLOOR AS IT GIVES OFF A LOT MORE WARMTH THAN A VINYL ALTERNATIVE.

A home for bikes (and the people who ride them!)

Wheels & Co wanted more than a bike shop, so we designed a space that’s part social hub, part retail - made for the two-wheel community.

What’s your story?

Tell us: hello@a7architecture.com

Homes created for you A7architecture.com

FEATURE

With Wheels & Co already operating from a pop-up shop at Oatlands while the work was ongoing, Brent and his team prioritised the workshop space so Matt and workshop manager Alex could use that while the rest of the project was completed. The extra space meant a much larger workshop area, which Matt said is key to the business: “The workshop is a fantastic space which means we can offer a really good service. We can deal with maintenance on any type of bicycle, and can also offer custom builds.”

Alongside the workshop, the store is divided into a number of distinct areas.

E-bikes are separated from manual bikes, with road, gravel and mountain bikes all given space.

For Sophie, using the space effectively took some careful thought: “It is a good-sized space but there was a lot that needed to be fitted in, while still keeping the right feel for the shop. As well as all the bikes, we needed to have an office, toilets and disabled facilities. The clothing offer meant space for those items alongside a changing room and store. It was a bit of a jigsaw but we made it work.

THE WORKSHOP IS A FANTASTIC SPACE WHICH MEANS WE CAN OFFER A REALLY GOOD SERVICE. WE CAN DEAL WITH MAINTENANCE ON ANY TYPE OF BICYCLE, AND CAN ALSO OFFER CUSTOM BUILDS.

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“We did our best to use the space effectively while allowing the shop to flow well. We put bikes up high so that they were on display but not all on the shop floor, while the plinths were carefully designed to incorporate storage. In the walk through between the two spaces we put open shelving to keep that separation but not close the area off.”

For Matt and Sue, one of the important features was the addition of a relaxing space with comfortable seating and a coffee machine to encourage people to pop in for a drink and a chat, even if they’re not planning a purchase. “We love to chat about bikes so we wanted to create a really welcoming atmosphere where other people could come and do just that.”

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025 With Meervelds previously completing work at Oatlands, the site was familiar to them.

The shop fit out, however, was an unusual project, and one Brent said they enjoyed: “As a firm, we complete a lot of residential development but a retail shop fit out is out of the ordinary for us. It was great to do something different, and in particular to use some of the more unusual materials that Sophie found. We’re really pleased with it.”

One of the heavily featured materials in the shop isn’t unusual to find on a building project, but has been used in a very different way here. The use of building material OSB (oriented strand board) was something Matt and Sue were keen on from the start: “We visited the Core bicycle trade show last year and we were heavily influenced by some of what we saw there.

A lot of the exhibitors were using OSB wood and we loved it, so it was something we wanted to incorporate into the design.

We’ve ended up using it everywhere in the shop, including the front desk, which Sophie designed to make quite a statement.”

While the use of OSB may look like a simple approach, Brent explained that it was somewhat more complicated than it first appears: “We were certainly using it in a different way to how we usually do, but it was something they were very keen on.

Our carpenters did all the work, including making the bespoke desk. They mitred all the edges to make it look like proper furniture, which took quite a lot of care.

Once they were finished they coated it in a clear varnish to try to avoid splinters for those using it.”

From the design input to the carefully curated bike selection, the shop is clearly a real passion project for Matt and Sue, and one they hope will thrive. But they say for them, it’s about more than just making money: “We need to make a living with this, but we feel very lucky that we can make a living doing something we feel so passionately about. I genuinely believe that cycling improves the world – and the more people that cycle, the better it will be for Guernsey and our environment. We’re very happy if we can contribute to that.”

WE LOVE TO CHAT ABOUT BIKES SO WE WANTED TO CREATE A REALLY WELCOMING ATMOSPHERE WHERE OTHER PEOPLE COULD COME AND DO JUST THAT.

Proud to have helped build Wheels & Co. THE CONTRACTORS J Meerveld & Sons A7 Architecture Smith Signs Ltd Collins Electrics Priaulx West

Acorn Interiors Stainless Steel Fabrications Officeworks Gravity IT

Guernsey Property and Construction

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FEATURE

GRANGE MEWS Their address might be on one of Guernsey’s busiest roads, but the properties in this central Town development feel far away from the bustle of St Peter Port, providing a peaceful retreat for their new residents.

The Grange Mews development is situated on the grounds of the former Ford Garage site, with access directly from the Grange.

But turn off the main road and into the development, and it’s all a far cry from its previous life as a busy car showroom and workshop.

While the development now bears little resemblance to that recent period of its history, it was designed to reflect an older story for the site. Architect Andy Merrett

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of Lovell Ozanne was responsible for the project, and he looked to the past for inspiration for its future.

“We did a lot of research into the history of the neighbouring villa, which originally had a large walled garden in this area.

The people who owned the house back in the early 1900s started one of the first garages in Guernsey, so the site has been associated with the automobile trade for a long time.

WE WANTED TO RETAIN SOME OF THAT WALLED GARDEN FEEL THROUGHOUT THE NEW DEVELOPMENT, SO WE WERE LUCKY THAT SOME OF THE ORIGINAL GRANITE WORK HAD BEEN RETAINED AND WE COULD USE THAT TO ADD TO THE CHARACTER OF THE SITE AND REFLECT ITS HISTORY.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

“We wanted to retain some of that walled garden feel throughout the new development, so we were lucky that some of the original granite work had been retained and we could use that to add to the character of the site and reflect its history. The mews-style of the houses was also a nod to the villa next door.”

The development has been divided up into two distinct areas, with the larger units at the back of the site enjoying individual gardens,

additional parking spaces and views over the neighbouring islands from the top floors.

The smaller properties at the front look out onto the neighbouring villa. Altogether there are 15 local market properties ranging from a one-bedroom flat with parking to three to four bedroom mews style houses over three floors.

Developer Infinity Construction was responsible for Grange Mews. Quantity surveyor Dave Stuart said the houses reflect their usual approach to construction: “They are very robustly constructed with traditional cavity blockwork and timber joist floors. The Millboard cladding and brick slips were designed to add interest to the look, but the build itself went very smoothly.”

But while the houses were a relatively straightforward part of the project, getting the site to a point where they could be erected wasn’t quite so simple. As a former garage site, there was plenty of remediation work that needed to be undertaken before building could start.

Dave explained the difficulties they faced: “Demolishing the old garage buildings was a real challenge in itself. The roof was asbestos and it had been bonded with a secondary waterproof layer, which made it impossible to take off by hand. It ended up being the first demolition we’ve done using mechanical plant to demolish an asbestos structure.

We consulted with the Health and Safety Executive and came up with a specialist plan

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FEATURE for demolition which involved using water cannons to dampen down the asbestos. It was a difficult process but it was very well controlled, and we successfully managed it.”

Once the buildings were removed, the site needed to be decontaminated. The project team was aware of the underground fuel tanks which had served the garage, and a full survey was undertaken to ensure they knew exactly what they were dealing with.

That found buried asbestos, beryllium lead and hydrocarbons. Dave explained their remediation strategy: “The plan was to dig 600mm of soil from the site, test it, and put membranes in the back gardens before replacing it with clean soil.

“When it came to dealing with that area, it was actually better than we expected. Luckily everything in the ground was at a very high level so we were able to strip the whole site and get rid of any contamination. We used a specialist contractor from Jersey to take the fuel tanks out, which fortunately weren’t leaking so we avoided problems in that area.

The condition of the site was a considerable risk factor when we started this project, but it ended up going very well.”

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ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025 Once the asbestos and contamination had been dealt with, Infinity had an easily accessible flat site to work on. As work progressed, some of the surprises were pleasant. When the plaster was removed from the boundary walls, it was discovered they were constructed of attractive old granite. Brick arches that echoed back to the walled garden days were also retained to add some more character to the development.

For Dave, it’s been a project that’s added real benefit to the island: “Not only has it provided much-needed accommodation, but it’s taken a commercial or industrial site and regenerated it to housing. We’ve also considered the environment with the build – every property has provision for EV car chargers, and we’ve installed bird and bat boxes around the development.”

The site completed earlier this year, with work taking a total of around two and a half years.

THE CONTRACTORS Infinity Construction Ltd Lovell Ozanne CBL Ltd Duquemin & Ozanne (CI) Ltd Island Electrics Bob Froome & Sons Ltd A.C. Ltd Omnia Consulting Ltd Vac Load Ltd NSP Foundations Ltd Hillstone (Guernsey) Ltd Prime Scaffolding (Guernsey) Ltd Guernsey Blocklayers TNT Stonemasons Channel Welders Ltd S Mair Carpentry Pinnacle Construction Ltd

Sarnian Roofing Ltd Guernsey Metal Roofing Window Service Centre Ltd Ecoscreed (CI) Ltd Eco Installations GH Interiors Ltd P3 Ltd Verdellis Construction Ltd Watson Flooring Jigsaw Bathrooms Ltd T Lowe Stainless Steel Fabrications Guernsey Gardens Ltd Natural Paving Tarmac Services Ltd Fineline Road Marking Ltd Aura (Sound & Air) Ltd

Only 3 properties remaining!

Price Update

Price reduction for Type 1 properties to £985,000. Last chance to purchase a property at this stunning development, in a prime, well regarded St. Peter Port location.

Grange Mews

St Peter Port – price £985,000

La Grange, St. Peter Port, GY1 1RQ

Other Current Developments – off-plan purchase options available

The Hideaway, St. Martin

Carriere Court, Vale

The Orchard, Castel

The Beaches, Castel

ALL SOLD

Contact us on 01481 238878 or email: sales@infinity.gg | infinity.gg Guernsey Property and Construction

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FEATURE

Images courtesy of Swoffers

EBENEZER This historic landmark on Brock Road had stood derelict for decades.

Now developed and restored, the original church has been given a new lease of life as modern apartments in central St Peter Port.

But while the journey has been far from straightforward, the developer has kept his faith with the project.

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Ebenezer Church closed its doors as a place of worship in July 1993; more than 30 years later it is finally re-opening them to new residents. The listed building has now been transformed into 17 apartments, which combine the historic original features of the listed church with the most modern of design.

Developer Jonathan Ruff of JAJ Properties has owned the site since 2021. His experience in developing former churches into accommodation in both Jersey and Guernsey meant it was a project he was keen to tackle. Luckily that energy has stayed with him through a host of unexpected challenges.

“When I first saw this property I did hesitate as it was a significant project to take on, but I decided to buy it in 2021. Pulse was the contractor at the time and they worked on the site for around nine months. I had some real concerns about their workload so we parted ways before they went into administration. Luckily, we weren’t too far into the project at that stage.”

Following that initial experience, Jonathan decided to use a Jersey-based company he had plenty of experience with. But in an unexpected stroke of misfortune, that relationship ended the same way when Macob Construction also went into administration in July 2024.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

THE EBENEZER TIMELINE 1878 the Brock Road Methodist Church opened on 10 October 1960 the church became formally known as Ebenezer Church 1993 the last service was held in July and the church closed its doors 2009 the first planning permission for apartments was granted 2012 the church was first sold for redevelopment 2021 JAJ Properties purchased the site 2025 the development was completed

T HE FEATURES OF THE OLD BUILDING ARE WHAT GIVE IT CHARACTER AND APPEAL, BUT YOU ALSO NEED TO WORK AROUND THOSE FEATURES TO ENSURE IT ENDS UP BEING SOMEWHERE THAT PEOPLE REALLY WANT TO LIVE. “I had previously done a lot of work with Macob, including my Torteval project, Chapelle du Vallon, so we had a good relationship. The news that they had also gone under was a real blow. I handled the situation the best I could – I came straight to the site in Guernsey and managed to retain a core team to help me finish the project.”

While some may have seen two contractors going out of business as a bad omen, Jonathan was determined to finish the project, even if it meant literally doing it himself.

“My absolute priority was getting this to completion. I laboured all of last summer alongside the team on the site, driving a tipper truck around most of the time. I went directly to all of the local suppliers to negotiate terms, who were all fantastic despite the situation. It wasn’t ideal in any way, but I’m

an entrepreneur and it was certainly an experience I’ll remember. Education comes from mistakes as well as successes – and this was quite a learning curve.”

While the contractor issues were clearly the major hurdle, renovating a building like Ebenezer was always going to come with plenty of challenges of its own. Converting the large space of a church with its unique design features into multiple smaller spaces will never be straightforward. The key – maximising the space without losing the soul.

“In particular we have to work with the feature windows that span multiple floors, and the existing timber structure. It’s a real balance. The features of the old building are what give it character and appeal, but you also need to work around those features to ensure it ends up being somewhere that people really want to live.”

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FEATURE

PLANNING PERMISSION From 2009, when the first planning permission was granted for the site, to the eventual build, the scheme for Ebenezer evolved significantly to allow for the various challenges of developing the former church.

A key change was around the access arrangements, which now see residents come onto the site via the Grange (through the new Grange Mews development), and exit onto Brock Road.

The apartments are clearly split between ‘old’ and ‘new’ – with an extension at the back housing six new build properties. At the front, the old church has been converted into 11 apartments – all with unique identities, from their floor plan to their original features.

Throughout the former church, its previous life is obvious. Feature windows abound, while the upper floor flats showcase the original timber trusses and beams.

Jonathan has had to work closely with Guernsey’s Planning Department throughout the project to retain the historically significant building, while ensuring it is fit for modern purposes. It’s been far from straightforward, but he hopes the end result is worth it.

“There has been a huge amount of thought and work that has gone into this project.

The stained glass you see from the front of the property has all been replaced, at a significant cost. We worked with a heritage company in the UK who manufactured and fitted every single piece. The feature windows in the apartments also had to be

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individually templated and manufactured.

It was quite an undertaking, but I think it’s what really adds character to the building.

“We worked with lots of different materials on site, but lime was one of the most important. All repairs had to match the original building, so we used local firm Limeworks to help with that. It involved importing dye from Italy and then using specialists to complete the limework. We’ve also put a special breathable sealant on the outside of all the lime, which will just need a simple reapplication every 15 years.”

Jonathan’s experience with similar buildings certainly stood him in good stead as he tackled the final stages of this project without a main contractor. He says there was little he hadn’t seen before.

“Incredibly, despite how long the property had been empty, it wasn’t in as poor condition as you would expect. Churches like this were built to last, and the work we’ve done will ensure it’s standing for a lot longer.”

Architect Andy Merrett of Lovell Ozanne was involved in the process: “We were looking at the Grange Mews scheme at the same time, and one of the issues that both schemes were facing was around traffic and vehicle movements and access to the properties. We saw that linking the two would add real value, and the planners agreed with us.

“The access was really where we found the synergy for both sites, and it was a solution that the planners were very happy with. At that time, we also managed to get planning permission for the additional six units in the extension at the far end of the church – so it was a significant move forward for the site.”

WORK IN PROGRESS From retail to restaurants, and schools to churches, this issue our work in progress section showcases the full breadth of the industry across the island.

These construction projects will provide better places for islanders to live, work and socialise for many years to come.

WORK IN PROGRESS

Creaseys

The major work underway at Creaseys is on track for handover of the first phase this summer.

The project started in July 2023; two years on the store should be trading from some of the new space in August.

The full project involves extending the current Creaseys store into the neighbouring building at 13 High Street.

By opening up the two buildings, the store will not only create more retail space but a better customer experience.

Images are courtesy of Lyons+Sleeman+Hoare

Rihoy & Son is the main contractor on the project. Managing director Dan Taylor updated the progress so far: “Having demolished 13 High Street we have now rebuilt it – it’s wind and watertight with all roof coverings on and the windows are also in on the quayside elevation.

“We’re now in the process of starting to render the elevation, so people should be able to see the difference from outside in the near future.”

Director Jonathan Creasey said the project has gone well so far: “We’re pleased with the progress. Everything is so well planned and we’ve been very impressed with the ability of the main contractor to deal with the logistics of all the short, medium and long term requirements on the site. It’s a really complex project and it’s being very well managed.

“It’s challenging because there are a lot of plates spinning at the same time. We have the building element running alongside the operational elements of running the store.

Every phase has to consider the impact it could have on the business – everything needs to be kept operational as the work is underway. The light, heat and power all need to stay on – our till and data systems need to work, and alongside all that we need to keep our staff and customers informed about what’s going on.”

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“We are having the metal balustrading to the staircase made by Channel Welders’ UK fabricators. It’s quite an important design feature so we wanted to get it right. The fabricators therefore came over to do a full 3D laser scan of the staircase before they start manufacturing the balustrades. They can then work from that survey to ensure that everything is accurate.”

Alongside number 13, the upper floors of the current Creaseys building are also being worked on. The former café level and the floor above it are currently being refurbished – once complete they will be temporarily used for womenswear and the lingerie department while their respective new areas are completed.

For Jonathan, it means his focus shifts from the construction to the retail element of the project: “We need to make sure that we are ready to use the space as soon as it’s ready. We’ve been so focused on getting the building ready, but we now need to really think about how we’re going to use it.

But our staff have been so brilliant with the project so far that I have no doubt they will all be on board to make it work.”

Inside number 13, the escalators have been installed, which will be the main way of transporting customers around the refurbished store.

While most of the work has been completed by the local team, specialist input has been used where necessary, as Dan explained:

With the first stage due to be handed over this summer, attention is starting to turn to the next phase of the project. The new store should be complete in late 2026, with Creaseys hoping that most of its Christmas trading that year will be from its bigger and better new home.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

M&S St Martin’s

Shoppers in St Martin’s might be browsing the aisles in a temporary structure later this year if Creaseys receives planning permission for its latest application.

The local retailer has already received permission for its project to extend the existing food hall and redo the carpark at the rear of the site.

They closed the former fuel forecourt last year, with work already completed to ensure the area is safe for further work. Director Jonathan Creasey explained what they’d done: “We removed the fuel forecourt and all the associated tanks, and then we had to go through due process to ensure there was no contamination. This is a very thorough procedure but all the tests have come back to suggest the ground is clean with no need for remedial works.”

But while the site is ready, Jonathan said their plans have changed: “We had planned to do a phased project where the current store stayed open and we negotiated the building work around staff and customers.

Over the last six to eight months we’ve worked really hard with the design team to look at the phasing and we’ve realised that it simply isn’t possible to carry out the level of work needed while also allowing the store to trade.

“Because of the nature of that business, there are too many health and safety concerns around the staff, the customers and the food. We simply can’t risk getting any of those things wrong.”

Those concerns have led to a proposed solution to enable the work to go ahead – moving the shop to a temporary structure in the rear carpark to give the builder the full run of the site for the duration of the work.

That rear area, which is currently gravelled, is now being upgraded to a permeable paved parking area. Jonathan explained what that will involve: “It’s a significant job. We will dig down, excavate everything we find and take it off site. Then new material will be re-laid in a more effective way. The work is mainly about ensuring that drainage in the area is improved. We need to make sure it won’t create a problem with surface water.”

Once that’s complete, the current tarmac areas will be resurfaced in a number of phases to ensure customers can continue to easily park and deliveries can continue. Once that work’s complete, it’s hoped permission will have been granted for the temporary structure.

For Jonathan, it’s the most sensible solution: “There are a number of benefits. This will enable the work on the store to go ahead as we will be able to continue trading while work progresses without interruption. We will also be able to do a more significant rebuild than originally planned which will lead to a better, more efficient building.”

While a first for Guernsey, the type of temporary structure being considered is a common sight across the UK and Europe so Jonathan is hopeful it would progress smoothly: “We are already in discussions with specialist firms in the UK who would be able to organise everything easily. We think it’s an excellent solution which will enable the otherwise problematic project while maintaining a good service for our customers and staff.”

The proposed temporary structure will give the store the same 4,000 sq.ft. trading and storage space that it currently operates from. While only designed to be up for the short term, it will be substantial enough to serve its purpose – with rigid insulated aluminium lined wall panels and a double skinned insulated roof.

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WORK IN PROGRESS

Les Ozouets Campus Jersey-based firm Rok Limited has been awarded the contract to lead the construction of the new campus at Les Ozouets in St Peter Port. The scheme should see the site of the former St Peter Port School and the Princess Royal Centre for Performing Arts become the home of post-16 education on the island, including The Guernsey Institute and the Sixth Form Centre.

The design work for the campus is a joint partnership between local firm Tyrrell Dowinton Architects and UK specialists Design Engine Architects, with TDA contracted to complete 33% of all works.

The work will now start with the construction of the main building and the construction and engineering building, both of which will be linked to the existing Princess Royal Centre for Performing Arts.

That first phase of the project will cost £61.6m. and should be completed by spring 2027.

Building works for the Sixth Form Centre and sports facilities are now allocated to phase two of the programme, which will take the project budget up to £88m. While funding for phase one has been agreed by the States, the funding for phase two will need to be approved further down the line before it can proceed.

The full planned scheme incorporates the existing Princess Royal Centre for Performing Arts, which will integrate into a new east west main building arranged around a landscaped piazza. The construction and engineering building will run north south incorporating a covered route to the sports building located to the far north.

A second piazza will then sit between the main building and Sixth Form Centre.

Rok Limited was appointed as the preferred bidder following the initial tender process in summer 2024 – now their proposal for the full project has been accepted. The firm has already delivered the preparatory elements of the programme by demolishing the former St Peter Port School building and carrying out some initial enabling works.

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With an off-island firm given the contract, Rok said they will be engaging subcontractors from the local supply chain to benefit a range of local trades. They held a ‘meet the supplier’ event on-island last year. Director Kevan Nelson said: “We are

delighted to be appointed to deliver this project and excited to use our expertise in delivering such a key part of the island’s commitment to education. We intend to work with the local supply chain and involve the community to ensure that as many people as possible can be part of creating this legacy.”

Nick Hynes, director of Education and senior responsible officer for the Transforming Education Programme, said: “We are incredibly pleased to have received funding for the Les Ozouets Campus build, which is a pivotal next step towards properly equipping our young people with the high-quality learning environment that they deserve. The new development will help to realise learners’ potential and have a positive impact on their outcomes and the community as a whole. As the building programme progresses, we will be sharing regular updates with the community so that they can share our exciting journey prior to it opening in 2027.”

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

Fukku “Because the kitchen is fully open, it has created an excellent focal point so that became part of the design. The kitchen is a real centrepiece for the restaurant. We used a great commercial kitchen design company in the UK called Greens Kitchens, who are also doing some other interesting projects over here, so that’s worked out well.”

While the project is on track to open soon, Sam says it hasn’t been without its challenges as they’ve attempted to adapt the old building into a modern restaurant: “The main challenge has been the age of the building, alongside the fact that the back side of it is below street level. We had significant damp issues to address so the timber and damp proof specialists came in and sorted that.

The new location for Japanese restaurant Fukku is on track to open shortly in Smith Street. The former Post Office location has been comprehensively refurbished to provide modern restaurant space.

The restaurant currently operates from a premises in the Arcade, with a focus on street food. The new restaurant, however, will extend to more formal dining options.

Proprietor Sam Jarrold said they have tried to make the most of the space available to offer different options for diners: “We’ve opened up the space as much as possible.

We will have two dining rooms. One has an open kitchen with 34 dining seats and eight seats at the sushi counter. They should be great spots as you can sit directly in front of the kitchen and watch the chefs preparing the food.

to the table. But while the original Fukku was inspired by Japanese izakaya and is bright and busy, Sam wanted a different feel for this space.

“This is a very different design, although there are elements of the existing Fukku that we are trying to bring to the new venue.

Because we had a completely blank canvas with this space, the design has certainly evolved as we have gone through the process. We knew that having a nice flow through the building was a priority, so we’ve kept the space quite open with a lot more classical Japanese influence in the design.

“The other hurdles mainly revolved around the building’s listing. The front of the property is fully protected. That meant we needed to install a suspended ceiling that everything from extraction fans to decorative features could be hung from. It took a lot of work and thought but I think we’ve managed it.”

Sam has managed the project in-house without using a main contractor for the restaurant. He says that, for him, it’s a good solution: “It’s always been the approach I’ve taken as I know all the people involved and I’m used to working with them. We’ve had a really good team on this – who all understand that there will be a hectic end to the project as we get ready for launch. Now we just can’t wait to get the doors open to customers.”

“On the opposite side, we will have a small dining space and a bar with walk in availability. That area is designed to retain some of the existing Fukku vibe, which is very much a casual street food style eatery.”

Sam has worked with architectural practice StudiO on the design of the space. As owner of the Hook restaurant as well as Fukku, he had plenty of industry experience to bring Guernsey Property and Construction

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WORK IN PROGRESS

The Hideaway/Key Worker Accommodation A joint venture between Infinity Construction Limited and the Guernsey Housing Association (GHA) is progressing well on site.

The arrangement is the first of its kind in the island, with the GHA working with a private contractor.

Infinity is building 15 units of key worker accommodation on a field at the Oberlands, in close proximity to the Princess Elizabeth Hospital. The GHA purchased the site in 2024 and, once completed, will rent out the one-bedroom apartments for muchneeded key worker housing.

Alongside the key worker housing, Infinity is completing eight apartments for private ownership at the rear of the site. Known as ‘The Hideaway’, these will comprise of four ground floor apartments with private patios, and four spacious duplex apartments over the first and second floors with private garden areas. All apartments will have parking, with one space for the ground floor apartments and two for the duplex properties.

With the development replacing a green field, attention has been paid to the landscaping around the properties, as Andy explained: “The plan is to have a nice planted area between the two blocks, with heavy planting to screen each block from the other. In front of the GHA properties at the front of the site will be wildflower grass meadows, so in the future there will be a lovely field there again.”

THE IDEA WITH THESE WAS TO GET VERY MUCH AWAY FROM THE IDEA OF TYPICAL SOCIAL HOUSING. INFINITY WANTED THIS SCHEME TO LOOK OUTWARDLY MUCH LIKE ANY OTHER INFINITY PROJECT.

Andy Merrett of Lovell Ozanne is the architect for the project and said the design has been a priority: “The idea with these was to get very much away from the idea of typical social housing. Infinity wanted this scheme to look outwardly much like any other Infinity project.

“For the key worker housing, the threestorey block has been designed with a brick plinth up to the first floor level, and then timber detailing underneath a slate roof.

We took a similar approach with the private units at the back so the site will be very cohesive.”

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Work started on site towards the end of 2024. Foundations are now in, along with the ground floor slabs while the block work is also progressing well. The site is due for completion in autumn 2026. All going well, the joint venture and mixed tenure approach may be a model that the GHA looks to pursue further in its quest to provide more social and key worker housing in the island.

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Mill Place Field Day. Inside, we’ve gone through the building and stripped it out before installing new M&E, new doors and ironmongery and full redecoration. Outside, we’ve completed any necessary repointing works and scaffolded the building to fix part of the roof.”

To modernise the space, all the existing partitions have been removed. One side will then remain as open plan offices, while the other will contain meeting rooms downstairs and individual offices on some of the upper floors. The ground floor will be home to a café with booth type seating.

Work on the former Town Mills office building is progressing well.

The St Peter Port office space is a Field Day development, who have again teamed up with contractor Ravenscroft for the refurbishment.

Now known as Mill Place, the fourstorey former industrial building is being completely refurbished and modernised with improvements to the exterior, lobbies and common areas as well as the office spaces.

Quantity surveyor Aaron Lesbirel said the work is going well for the Ravenscroft team: “We are doing a Cat A and Cat B fitout for

While work started on site in 2024, the building was still partly tenanted, so the contractors had some limitations. Much of the work therefore initially focused on the south side of the building until earlier this year.

With the building now empty, work is progressing at pace in the north side of the building. The south side is fairly close to the handover stage of the first offices, with the north side due to complete in the autumn.

St Andrew’s Church to the ancient building. We’ve therefore designed it with high quality materials and given careful consideration to the existing fabric and finishes of this important building.

“We are using glazing to insert a clear connection between the old and new buildings, while the other materials are sympathetic to the existing building. We’re using stone schist in a similar colour but in a more modern laying pattern so it sits within the existing building but doesn’t look like it’s trying to be something it’s not. It’s a careful balance, but I think we’ve managed it.”

Work has started on a small extension to St Andrew’s Church – a single storey entrance porch with integrated toilet and internal kitchen facilities.

The historic church dates back to the medieval period with the earliest part of the building originating from the 12th century.

Since then there have been multiple

changes, including the addition of the tower and north aisle in the 15th century as well as Victorian alterations.

Brian Tyrrell of Tyrrell Dowinton Architects has been responsible for the design and says it’s the next stage in the building’s evolution: “The whole building tells a story and this is the next chapter. It was very important to tie it in to the rest of the church, and ensure it appears subservient

The extension will not only provide a covered entrance but much-needed toilet facilities for the church, which it is currently lacking.

The first stage of the project has begun, which involves an archaeological dig to inspect the ground and unearth any remains. Once that has happened the stage two excavation and building work will commence, hopefully later this year.

Guernsey Property and Construction

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INTERVIEW

JEZ THOMAS The winner of the ‘Industry Professional of the Year’ award at the Guernsey Property and Construction awards, Jez Thomas is a familiar face in Guernsey. As site manager at J Meerveld & Sons, he has rubbed shoulders with construction professionals across the island. With his contribution to the industry now recognised, he shared what’s driven him to succeed.

When Jez Thomas arrived in Guernsey 30 years ago with £60 in his pocket, he certainly didn’t expect to still be here in 2025 – with a wife, a son, a home, and a successful construction career that was recently recognised by his peers.

Originally a bricklayer by trade, when Jez first came in Guernsey in the mid-1990s he started working as a landscape gardener.

When he moved on to a job with RG Falla, he also moved to Brecqhou to work on the major project underway there.

“I lived on Brecqhou and worked on the castle for about two years, and then moved back to Guernsey and commuted for the rest of the project. It was obviously a very unusual scheme to work on, but I enjoyed it and I forged relationships then that I still

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have now. It was during that time that I realised Guernsey might be a place I was going to stay long-term.”

After Brecqhou, Jez spent some time with RG Falla’s then sister company, Granite Le Pelley, before moving to the workplace that has defined his time in Guernsey.

“I had a call from Peter Meerveld asking me to meet with him, and then he offered me a job as a bricklayer. That was in 1999, and 26 years later I’m still there. From the very start, Peter was an excellent mentor – not only professionally but also outside of work as well. He supported me in so many ways – from advice to help with building my home.

Meervelds is very much a family business, and I think I’ve stayed so loyal to them over the years because of that.”

I WAS SHOCKED TO BE NOMINATED FOR THE AWARD, LET ALONE WIN IT – I CERTAINLY DIDN’T EXPECT THAT. BUT I DO TAKE PRIDE IN MY WORK, SO IT’S REALLY NICE TO BE VALUED BY MY PEERS.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025 But while Jez has been with the same company for a quarter of a century, the job he has had there has certainly evolved.

From those early days working hands-on on the company’s sites, he has moved to more of a management role.

“I have a disease in my hand called Dupuytren’s contracture [where fingers bend in towards the palm of your hand], which was starting to make the physical aspect of my job difficult, and I was also just getting a bit older. So I was asked to move to start running our jobs, and I now work as site manager for the company.”

Jez has run significant projects for Meervelds during his time with the firm – a recent scheme saw him complete a development of 56 apartments. To make that work, he’s clear that organisation and communication have to be the priorities.

“In this industry, the relationships you build with people are absolutely crucial – and that often comes down to effective communication. You need to be able to communicate well with people in all different situations – from the guys working on site to the architects and engineers helping develop the projects, and the clients looking to buy the properties. It’s a wide range, but if you can’t communicate effectively with all of them, you won’t be able to do the job efficiently.

“From an organisational point of view, that’s a fundamental skill. I’d estimate that planning is around 75% of my role.

If a project isn’t planned properly, then you don’t know what materials you need from the outset, and everything will just flow poorly from there. Preparation is absolutely key, and it’s something I get a real sense of satisfaction out of doing well.”

While Jez is characteristically modest about his own talents, his approach to his job and people management clearly highlights his strengths and priorities.

“I have always taken real pride in my workmanship – I was taught from the beginning of my career to have high standards, and that’s something I try to instil in everyone working with me. I want my colleagues to be loyal and have a sense of pride in working for the firm.

I’ve always found that you get the best workmanship when people genuinely care, and that’s what we’re always looking for on our sites.

“At the same time, I’m always open to learning something new. No matter how long anyone has worked in an industry for, you can never know everything and every day offers the chance to develop.”

Jez has certainly developed during his time in Guernsey, and as he looks back over his time here he says the island has given him opportunities he’s very grateful for.

“Guernsey has its own nuances, and as an outsider it takes a while to work out exactly how it runs. But I do think it offers something very special. The size of the island and the community feel means that you can develop relationships more effectively, which can make a real difference. The UK is a very different landscape – the industry is a lot more aggressive, and I do sometimes worry that is the way Guernsey is going.”

IN THIS INDUSTRY, THE RELATIONSHIPS YOU BUILD WITH PEOPLE ARE ABSOLUTELY CRUCIAL YOU NEED TO BE ABLE TO COMMUNICATE WELL WITH PEOPLE IN ALL DIFFERENT SITUATIONS.

But if he’s right and the industry is becoming less welcoming generally, it certainly isn’t to Jez – who was recently awarded the ‘Industry Professional of the Year’ award at the Guernsey Property and Construction Awards. He says the win was a very pleasant surprise.

“I was shocked to be nominated for the award, let alone win it – I certainly didn’t expect that. But I do take pride in my work, so it’s really nice to be valued by my peers.

My wife now has the award up in pride of place in our house, so I get reminded of it every day, and I really appreciate it.”

Guernsey Property and Construction

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COMMENT

Opening up the open market Harry Round, associate at Collas Crill, discusses the new policy for the island’s open market inscriptions.

Policy and guidance for Guernsey’s Open Market Housing Register (Register) has now been approved by the States following proposals from the Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure (E&I).

These proposals provide a policy basis for greater flexibility on new inscriptions and the transfer of existing inscriptions on Guernsey’s open market. The States considers that the changes will provide the opportunity to raise at least £1.5m in additional revenue per year.

Background Under the Open Market Housing Register (Guernsey) Law, 2016, E&I has the power to inscribe properties on the Register. However, there had been a lack of a policy setting out the circumstances in which an application for a new inscription should be granted and the cost payable associated with the application.

What is new?

New inscriptions on Part A A new mechanism for Inscriptions in Principle (IIP) will allow properties to secure a conditional new inscription on Part A of the Register.

This is an amendment to the current requirement that properties can only be officially inscribed after receiving a completion certificate. An IIP will apply to two categories: a. Prospective new build properties – Properties with planning approval, but not yet completed. b. ‘Exceptional circumstance’ properties – Existing properties which meet specific criteria (to be specified in guidance) to qualify for inscription.

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An IIP remains valid for six years. To secure the full inscription, the applicant must (in the case of a new build) complete construction of the property, pay all fees and comply with any other specific conditions on the IIP. The States can regulate the number of IIPs issued, preventing excessive market expansion. It is proposed that the cap will be set at three new inscriptions per year.

If a property with an extant IIP in place changes hands before it is inscribed, this in itself will not affect the IIP in respect of that property.

Transfer of Part A inscriptions to new developments A framework is proposed to transfer existing Part A inscriptions from existing properties to newly developed properties under certain conditions: a. The owner must hold at least one inscribed Part A property and a site which has been approved for new development (of two or more units). b. On completion of the development, the existing Part A property’s inscription is deleted. c. The number of Part A properties created in a development cannot exceed onethird of the total units, with a maximum of eight per development.

Downsizing transfers A specific provision enables long-term open market residents to transfer their Part A inscription to a smaller home. To qualify: a. The applicant must have lived in open market housing and been ordinarily resident in Guernsey for at least 20 years. b. The new home must be at least 25% smaller than the original property. c. Both properties must be owned by the applicant at the time of application. d. Properties in Fort George are excluded from these transfers.

This policy encourages older residents to downsize, freeing up larger homes for new occupants while maintaining market stability.

Regularisation of ‘anomaly properties’ A small number of properties inscribed on Part A have rooms or sections which are not included in the property’s inscription, creating legal and occupancy issues for homeowners. The amendment allows a very small number of property owners to apply for a full Part A inscription, ensuring the entire dwelling is inscribed on the Register (so long as doing so does not serve to create an independent unit). This measure removes administrative inconsistencies and simplifies compliance.

Additional information • Fees and charges will be levied in respect of each application.

d. Properties on Fort George are excluded from these transfers.

• New inscriptions will attract a levy (to account for the increase in value of a property with an inscription).

This measure aims to permit greater flexibility in Guernsey’s housing stock while controlling market expansion.

• Having been approved by the States, the new legislation now awaits Royal Assent before coming into force.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

Housing is the States of Guernsey’s top priority Rachel Jones, senior associate at Carey Olsen, discusses the Island Development Plan focused review and the proposed new approach to the delivery of affordable housing.

It is well known that Guernsey is facing significant housing pressures, with shortage of houses and housing affordability being long-term issues. The supply and delivery of housing is the States of Guernsey’s top priority.

One mechanism for the provision of land to be used for housing is the Island Development Plan (IDP), the document considered by the Development and Planning Authority (DPA) in determining planning applications. The plan sets out how land in Guernsey is to be used to support businesses and the community with necessary and appropriate development, whilst also ensuring the environment is protected and enhanced.

The IDP seeks to ensure that planning policies make land available in the right places to meet housing requirements.

This includes affordable housing (that is, housing for people who cannot afford to rent or buy property in the private market).

The IDP, as adopted in 2016, contains an affordable housing policy, Policy GP11, which requires proposals for private market developments resulting in a net increase of 20 or more dwellings to provide a significant percentage of the site for affordable housing. This policy has been controversial since its conception, with many local developers warning that the policy prevented the development of larger sites for private market housing. Since the adoption of the IDP, Policy GP11 has not delivered any land or units for affordable housing.

Calls for Policy GP11 to be amended resulted in the States deciding by resolution in April 2024 that the percentage requirement of affordable housing in Policy GP11 would

be reduced to 0% for the next five years, effectively suspending the policy – although the effect of this resolution is questionable as the statutory procedure to amend the IDP was not followed.

Review of the IDP and the DPA’s proposed draft amendments The DPA is currently undertaking a focused review of the IDP, including a review of policies relating to housing land supply which provides the opportunity to update and amend policies, so that provision can be made for the next five years.

The review commenced in January 2023 and, following consultations and evidence gathering, the DPA published proposed draft amendments to the IDP in June 2024.

The proposed draft amendments include updates to the sites allocated for private market housing and a significant change in the approach to affordable housing, with the proposed removal of Policy GP11.

It is clear that the DPA’s position is now that private market developments should not be required to contribute to the island’s affordable housing needs through planning policy. As a result of this and to make land available for affordable housing, the proposed draft amendments introduce the allocation of sites specifically for affordable housing (“Affordable Housing Sites”).

Following public consultation on the proposed draft amendments, a significant number of initial representations were made to the DPA and the review process was paused to consider those representations.

Revised draft amendments were published by the DPA in February 2025.

The revised draft amendments include the replacement of the six proposed Affordable Housing Sites with eight new sites, all of which were proposed through the Call for Sites processes. To ensure that the sites are deliverable, the sites were put forward with the agreement of the landowners.

As part of the affordable housing allocations, it is proposed that a small part of each site is used for private market housing development, to facilitate delivery through joint ventures.

The Affordable Housing Sites may provide land to be used for affordable housing, but whether they will lead to the delivery of much needed affordable homes will depend on other factors such as funding and finance issues, construction industry capacity, and site preparation and construction costs.

The proposed revised draft amendments to the IDP will be subject to further consultation and comments from the IDP as the review process progresses. We are sure that they will be the subject of extensive discussion at the Public Inquiry, expected to take place later this year.

THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING SITES MAY PROVIDE LAND TO BE USED FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING, BUT WHETHER THEY WILL LEAD TO THE DELIVERY OF MUCH NEEDED AFFORDABLE HOMES WILL DEPEND ON OTHER FACTORS SUCH AS FUNDING AND FINANCE ISSUES, CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CAPACITY, AND SITE PREPARATION AND CONSTRUCTION COSTS. Guernsey Property and Construction

51

AWARDS

Overall winner of the GBTEA Rose Bowl Electrical Installations: Phillip Le Noury Employed by Transform Electrics Ltd Prize sponsored by Amalgamated Facilities Management Ltd

GBTEA RECOGNITION AWARDS 2024 The Guernsey Building Trades Employers Association (GBTEA) has recognised the contributions and achievements of the island’s apprentices at its annual gala dinner and awards.

During the evening, six individual apprentices were rewarded for their work and dedication to their trade, with one receiving the overall honour of the GBTEA Rose Bowl.

More than a hundred guests attended the evening at the Farmhouse, with David Duquemin and his wife Lindsey the guests of honour in C A Duquemin Limited’s centenary year.

The winners were decided by representatives from the Guernsey Institute College and individual course tutors, who judged each of the trades. Industry representatives Kevin Le Tissier and Jamie Weysom then interviewed the finalists to decide on the overall prize winner.

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Each winning apprentice received an engraved tankard, a certificate of their achievement and a £150 voucher from their sponsor.

The overall winner, Phillip Le Noury, received a cheque for £300 from the GBTEA as well as the coveted Rose Bowl.

While there were unfortunately no awards this year for painting and decorating or the Ronez Young Achiever in stonemasonry skills, the GBTEA says there were strong numbers of apprenticeships in the September 2024 intake, so it is hoping those awards will be reinstated in coming years. However, this year’s awards did see a new category launched in partnership with the CIOB, the ‘CIOB Site Management’ award.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

Carpentry & Joinery: Michael Kirk

Plumbing & Heating: Kieran Creber

Employed by C A Duquemin Ltd Prize sponsored by C A Duquemin Ltd

Employed by Amalgamated Facilities Management Prize sponsored by Duquemin & Ozanne Ltd

Welding & Fabrication: Cameron Moffat

CIOB Site Management: Alexander Johns

Employed by Stainless Steel Fabrications Ltd Prize sponsored by Channel Welders Ltd

Employed by TR Bougourd Building Services Prize sponsored by C A Duquemin Ltd and CIOB

Trowel Trades: Sol Goddard (Not pictured) Employed by Quality Construction Ltd Prize sponsored by Hillstone Guernsey Ltd Guernsey Property and Construction

53

COMMENT

Not just more homes - better homes David De La Mare of DLM Architects considers how Guernsey’s affordable housing sites can be rethought with sustainability, resilience and community at their heart.

As a RIBA Chartered Architect committed to sustainable innovation, I believe Guernsey’s ongoing review of the Island Development Plan (IDP) by the Development & Planning Authority (DPA) represents a pivotal moment. The island’s housing crisis is a pressing concern, particularly for key workers and young families, and the allocation of new sites for affordable housing is vital. But beyond the basic provision of homes, we have an opportunity to reshape how we think about land use, design, and the very fabric of sustainable communities.

HOWEVER, THERE IS GROWING CONCERN WITHIN THE COMMUNITY ABOUT CURRENT PROPOSALS WHICH SUGGEST REPURPOSING WORKING GREENHOUSE SITES FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING.

With the Guernsey Housing Association (GHA) set to play a key role in delivering the affordable housing target by 2030, the review must do more than simply earmark sites—it must promote responsible, forward-thinking development principles. As architects and construction professionals, we stand at the intersection of policy, community, and the environment. The choices made now will have lasting implications.

The RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge has set ambitious benchmarks for energy efficiency, embodied carbon, water use, and health and wellbeing. In Guernsey, where the island’s unique ecosystem and limited landmass heighten the importance of responsible planning, these goals are more than guidelines—they are a necessity. The IDP review must actively encourage developments that embody these standards, prioritising low-carbon construction techniques, circular economy principles, and designs that foster resilient, future-proofed communities.

Equally important is ensuring these sites are commercially viable. Affordable housing must not be associated with cutting corners; rather, it should be synonymous with thoughtful, sustainable design that reduces operational costs and improves the quality of life for its residents. Developers and landowners must work collaboratively with the GHA to ensure

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projects are deliverable without compromising on quality or environmental integrity. The alignment of economic viability with long-term sustainability will be critical to success.

However, there is growing concern within the community about current proposals which suggest repurposing working greenhouse sites for affordable housing. While unlocking land for development is essential, we must be cautious not to undermine the island’s independent food supply chain, especially given the vulnerabilities exposed by global supply disruptions in recent years. Historically Guernsey’s greenhouse industry was a vital part of our local resilience, and its preservation for the future should be factored into broader land-use strategy.

Instead, the IDP should prioritise underutilised brownfield sites or low ecological value land where innovative design and master planning can transform disused or degraded areas into thriving, sustainable neighbourhoods.

Retrofitting and rewilding must also be part of the conversation, complementing new builds with strategies that protect biodiversity and mitigate climate impacts.

Ultimately, this review is more than a policy exercise; it is an opportunity to reimagine how Guernsey grows. By fostering a collaborative approach between developers, landowners, architects, and the GHA—and by committing to the principles of the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge—we can deliver housing that is affordable, sustainable, and culturally attuned to the island’s future.

Guernsey’s next generation of homes must set the standard for responsible island living, not just for 2030, but for decades beyond.

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

Fabric first approach to building performance Miles Pengelley, chartered architectural technologist (MCIAT) at JG Architecture Ltd, and Channel Islands CIAT regional secretary/councillor, explains the growing conversation topic of Energy Performance Certificates.

Looking at the residential sector within the construction industry, a new build dwelling or extension will need to satisfy the building regulations. One of those regulations concerns the conservation of fuel and power in buildings. It sets out to ensure the building fabric performs to an appropriate standard to enable the conservation of fuel and power and result in a comfortable internal space that allows the occupant of the building to thrive.

What about existing buildings that weren’t built to these standards?

This is where renovation and refurbishment projects come into their own technical area of specifications.

IN THE FIRST INSTANCE WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND THE PERFORMANCE OF THE EXISTING BUILDING TO OFFER ADVICE ON HOW MEASURABLE IMPROVEMENTS CAN BE MADE.

In the first instance we need to understand the performance of the existing building to offer advice on how measurable improvements can be made.

Within the industry are ‘domestic energy assessors’ (DEA), who can undertake assessments of your home to identify an energy performance rating and issue a certificate to reflect their findings.

A DEA is a qualified professional under an approved accreditation body and, as part of their assessments, they will consider the fabric and heating systems of the existing building.

Once these elements of the existing building are established, the DEA can produce an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) that includes measurable recommendations on the improvements that could be made to enhance the performance efficiencies of the building.

Such recommendations could then be shared with the likes of an architectural technologist, briefing them with the task of applying the

recommendations to a considered design and specification of works to the property, ensuring any planning or building control consents, and then issuing to a contractor to price the works.

What recommendations could an EPC make?

Initially your property’s current performance would be rated on an alphabetical scale (A-G), much like your domestic white goods.

The EPC would outline recommendations to get you to the next level, or the level after that.

The level of performance you wish to achieve may be influenced by your budget and this is where budget costings from a builder, as the first action following your EPC, can dictate the way forward.

It is also worth mentioning there are a number of ‘green lenders’ available, who may be able to help you financially with your aspirations to improve the performance of your home and reduce those energy bills. Visit electricliving. gg/green-lending to find out more.

As architectural technologists we would always look at a ‘fabric first’ approach to your home improvements, taking the recommendations of the EPC and focusing on areas like wall and roof insulation, draught proofing and window specifications, before then looking at the more exciting options like generation of renewable energy.

If you’d like to explore your home improvement options, or discuss alternative ways of measuring the performance of your home, you can find a local chartered architectural technologist via architecturaltechnology.com

Guernsey Property and Construction

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COMMENT

Careers in construction Caroline Gumble, chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), discusses the opportunities available for young people in the industry.

If you’ve been in construction for almost any length of time, you’ll know that we face a serious skills gap. There are those, including me, who think it’s more useful to say “people gap”, as what we really need is more people to train, mentor and upskill.

RECENT FIGURES SUGGEST THAT AROUND 250,000 ADDITIONAL PEOPLE ARE NEEDED TO MEET THE UK’S CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT BY 2028.

But it remains an issue and has been for more than a decade. Recent figures suggest that around 250,000 additional people are needed to meet the UK’s construction output by 2028 (figures from the Construction Industry Training Board). However, this number is now expected to be even higher, given the Government’s plan for 1.5 million new homes during this parliament.

One way to tackle this is to attract more school leavers and CIOB has recently published a report examining attitudes towards construction careers.

Following a survey of 2,001 young people aged 16-24 and 2,000 parents across the UK, the headline findings are: • two thirds (68%) of young people aged between 16 and 24 hold a positive view of construction careers • around a third (31%) would consider working in the construction sector

the industry, including more than one in 10 associating the sector with modern, techfocused roles and describing the sector as diverse.

In my time with CIOB, I have made the case that construction is a fantastic career which offers interesting, long-term and, often, well paid roles. But more than that – at CIOB, we remind people that what construction professionals do matters today and will matter tomorrow.

As a collective, our industry creates the buildings which keep us safe and healthy, which allow work to get done, give children somewhere to learn and flourish and allow society to function.

So if you ever get the chance to talk to someone who’s at the age when they might be choosing a career path – or their teachers, careers advisors or parents – tell them that our industry offers a chance to leave a real legacy and invite them to consider joining us.

The full “Attitudes Towards Construction Careers” report is available on the CIOB website, where you can also find information about becoming a CIOB Construction Ambassador to help inspire students with your career story.

• almost half (47%) said information about it was not included in the careers advice they received whilst in education.

A survey of parents of 16-24-year-olds showed: • more than three quarters (79%) would be supportive of their child working in construction • more than 40 per cent (43%) of parents surveyed said they’d prefer their child to “earn while they learn”, reflecting concerns over rising university costs.

Overall, this shows a welcome and encouraging trend in young people’s perceptions of

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CIOB in the Channel Islands As ever, if you’d like to find out more about events being organised for members in the region, do feel free join our LinkedIn group “CIOB in South UK” or check out the events section of the CIOB website.

COMMENT

ISSUE 17 SPRING/SUMMER 2025

Can we keep it local?

John Bampkin, chair of the Guernsey Construction Forum (GCF), has a heartfelt plea to the island’s politicians to prioritise the local industry.

As we approach the end of another political term, those deputies may reflect on what difference they have made while entrusted with the islands’ livelihoods and future.

From a construction industry point of view, it has been a frustrating four years. While small steps have been made, it’s not the leaps and bounds needed.

SO, MY ADVICE TO THE INCOMING DEPUTIES IS …

PLEASE CONSIDER THE SHORT AND LONG TERM EFFECTS OF NOT INVESTING IN LOCAL BUSINESSES AND APPRENTICES.

We saw the suspension of GP11, which had previously made some sites commercially untenable as we do not enjoy the economies of scale this UK designed framework entails.

This will help, but will not produce the instant results some people are expecting.

We also saw the formation of the Housing Forum, made up of key individuals representing some of the most important groups on the island to help steer government from a commercial perspective.

And finally, we saw the Housing Committee being voted in under a Requete, which will hopefully bring some much-needed focus and accountability on the housing crisis.

With these entities in place, I pray it does not again take years to build up knowledge, dialogue and trust with politicians. We need instant dialogue on all matters concerning construction to ensure we have sight of the pipeline of works and a fair shot at winning that business.

I really want everyone on the islands to think about our construction industry and the important role it plays in our everyday lives.

It’s vital for Guernsey that we have a vibrant and capable construction industry, and this is why:

Our housing stock is getting older, and we urgently need more accommodation. Who builds and maintains this?

Infrastructure is key to any society, let alone one in a small group of islands. Who builds and maintains this, but also reacts quickly when it fails?

We need more school and hospital capacity; we still physically buy things from shops; we work in offices and warehouses. Who is going to create and look after these important facilities?

If we continue to award contracts off-island we will not only lose the obvious tax revenue and local employment, but we suffer longer term damage that’s irreparable.

We lose certain skills because there is not the call for that knowledge and expertise to be passed down through local trades. We have fewer apprentices being taken on each year due to the uncertainty of the work pipeline, which means fewer qualified tradesmen and a loss of competitiveness and choice.

I could go on about local shareholder taxes, local supply chains being used, any defects that need putting right after the non-resident contractor has long gone, and much more.

This is the challenge we face as an island and unfortunately, we still do not have this right.

So, my advice to the incoming deputies is … please consider the short and long term effects of not investing in local businesses and apprentices, not just the actual price of any project on any given day.

We need to give it our best shot … together.

Guernsey Property and Construction

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COMMENT

Health and safety – in numbers Andrew Mills, chair of the Guernsey Occupational Safety and Health Association (GOSHA), looks at the latest Guernsey statistics and the lessons that can be learned.

THE REPUTATIONAL COSTS CAN BE CATASTROPHIC AND THE FINANCIAL COSTS CAN BE EYE-WATERING THE LARGEST PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM AWARD IN GUERNSEY IS OVER £14M.

Health and safety management can be an emotive topic. If you do it well, it makes your business better - becoming more efficient and effective with a happier workforce. Do it badly, or choose to ignore it, and sooner or later things will go wrong.

Some of the island’s largest contractors have proactively worked to make their sites and work practices safe, and have proportionately far fewer incidents than some of our smaller construction businesses. If people work for you, they deserve to be safe.

The consequences of injury or ill-health caused by work undertaken for an entity in Guernsey can be huge. The reputational costs can be catastrophic and the financial costs can be eye-watering - the largest personal injury claim award in Guernsey is over £14m.

The property sector generally generates serious incidents every year, from people slipping and tripping to building management issues such as the identification and management of asbestos and control of the legionella bacterium. Awareness of your responsibilities, addressing the hazards, and maintaining good knowledge of the effective management of property are essential elements in owning and managing property in Guernsey.

The regular compilation of health and safety statistics for businesses in Guernsey is, therefore, an interesting production. They show how we are doing as an island, sectors and issues for improvement, trends, and the costs to business in terms of lost manpower.

The latest figures are available at www.gov.gg/ hse and show a total number of incidents of 212 in 2023 (the most recent year available), as compared with 197 in 2022 and 190 in 2021.

The total number of incidents fell during the Covid period and has now risen again. However, I’m glad to say the total number is lower than the pre-pandemic period (in 2019, there were 380 reported incidents). But the total is still too high. These are the more serious workplace incidents and we have, on average, four every week.

There will be various factors driving this, with the construction sector a significant contributor. Construction sites are hazardous, but they don’t have to be places where people are seriously hurt or suffer significant ill-health.

The incidents arise from a variety of sources, including chemicals, falls and dust.

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The HSE produces some very helpful guidance.

There is a Construction Approved Code of Practice, which is compulsory to follow. If you need further guidance, you can access a number of Guernsey based consultants and specialist support businesses. There are training courses and some of the IOSH professional courses will help you to be better informed - they range from basic safety awareness and management to the highest professional safety qualifications.

Remember the Guernsey Health and Safety Ordinance of 1987 is a strong, robust and clear law that sets out responsibilities for everyone in our island who owns, runs or works in an island business, charity or other organisation here in Guernsey.

Don’t end up being another number in Guernsey’s ill-health and accidents statistics caused by workplace activities.

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Guernsey Property and Construction

59

CHARITY

UNLTD GETS OUTSIDE A charity focused on improving the lives of islanders with disabilities, UnLtd at the Ron Short Centre has seen significant improvements in its facilities and services over the past couple of years. But while the renovation of the centre and shop had made it fully accessible and fit for purpose, its rear entrance and garden space hadn’t received the same attention. Now a recent project means its members can enjoy the outside space as much as the inside.

The rear entrance and garden of the Ron Short Centre have been used by members not only for access to the building, but for social events and growing food and plants for use and sale in the centre. But with significant improvements made elsewhere, the area was no longer fit for purpose.

That was when Swedish-based firm EKA stepped in, offering to provide the materials and complete the work as a pro bono project. Now the area has been completely refurbished and enhanced – allowing for members to use the space regardless of their level of mobility.

A paved pathway has been installed to improve wheelchair access from the road, while the outdoor furniture was repaired and planters were constructed to add to the ambience.

During their time on the project, EKA also constructed a garden shed which had been donated by local builder’s merchant Norman Piette, repainted the façade of the building and landscaped the garden area.

For Armands Starpenieks, chair of EKA, the firm that undertook the work, it was a project close to his heart: “My mother was affected by epilepsy and has sadly passed away. I have close family members and

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friends also impacted by disability and longterm illness. I deeply empathise with how debilitating disability and illness can be for individuals and their families. After seeing the improvements needed at the Ron Short Centre, I just had to help with their incredible work. It was the right thing to do.”

WE WERE AMAZED TO SEE THE TEAM WORKING ALL DAYLIGHT HOURS, EVEN OVER THE WEEKENDS, TO COMPLETE THE PROJECT EFFICIENTLY AND TO A VERY HIGH STANDARD.

It was a project that the team at UnLtd was very happy to receive help with.

The charity’s managing director, Dr Rob Harnish, said the impact will be significant: “What started out as a request to help us make safe an unusable fire escape was turned by EKA into an opportunity to completely renew what had been a dead space. We were amazed to see the team working all daylight hours, even over the weekends, to complete the project efficiently and to a very high standard.

The fact is, the dedication of the team has not only made a huge difference to the accessibility of our facilities and to the appearance of the building, but it has opened up new ways to make life better for everyone who attends the centre.

We could not be more grateful to Armands and his team from EKA for their work and their support for our vision of a fully inclusive island community.”

While the Ron Short Centre is still waiting for the grass to come through to complete the final appearance of the revamp, the charity’s members are already reaping the benefits of the enhanced space. Anthony Pengelley, one of UnLtd’s special work placements, explained how it will help him: “As our gardener, I really appreciate the wonderful shed donated by Norman Piette, which EKA built for us. I can now work in all weathers to keep our site beautiful, to grow produce for our cooking classes, and plants to sell in our shop.”

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