From Matt Gaudion.
THE proposed erection of a 60-metre ‘Jersey Eye’ wheel directly opposite residential property on the waterfront is a major cause for concern for occupiers of nearby apartments.
Notwithstanding the possible loss of the Battle of Britain airshow which may arise from this structure, the residents who live nearby will have to endure both the added noise and loss of privacy associated with its thoughtless placement.
I agree fully with comments made by Mike Higgins (organiser of the Jersey Air Display) in the JEP of 15 May, that not a single visitor will make the trip to Jersey specifically to ride this attraction. On the reverse, the airshow brings in many visitors to Jersey every year and if it’s cancelled or restricted due to this structure then it will be a massive blow to Jersey Tourism.
I have spoken to the Planning department who inform me that this wheel did not need an application due to it being situated on land used by a statutory corporation, ie the Waterfront Enterprise Board, and being used for a ‘public purpose’.
Clearly the lack of public consultation in this case has led to both negative press regarding possible loss of the airshow, and left local residents with no place to lodge an objection. I don’t object in principle to a Jersey version of the London eye, but while the wheel is not yet in the Island, it is not too late to relocate it out of the Waterfront area.
I would like to know precisely why locals living nearby were not consulted on whether they would like this attraction built in what is effectively their front garden, and currently a peaceful place for people to relax. 22 Century Buildings,
Esplanade, St Helier.
Why were residents not consulted?
From Matt Gaudion.
THE proposed erection of a 60-metre ‘Jersey Eye’ wheel directly opposite residential property on the waterfront is a major cause for concern for occupiers of nearby apartments.
Notwithstanding the possible loss of the Battle of Britain airshow which may arise from this structure, the residents who live nearby will have to endure both the added noise and loss of privacy associated with its thoughtless placement.
I agree fully with comments made by Mike Higgins (organiser of the Jersey Air Display) in the JEP of 15 May, that not a single visitor will make the trip to Jersey specifically to ride this attraction. On the reverse, the airshow brings in many visitors to Jersey every year and if it’s cancelled or restricted due to this structure then it will be a massive blow to Jersey Tourism.
I have spoken to the Planning department who inform me that this wheel did not need an application due to it being situated on land used by a statutory corporation, ie the Waterfront Enterprise Board, and being used for a ‘public purpose’.
Clearly the lack of public consultation in this case has led to both negative press regarding possible loss of the airshow, and left local residents with no place to lodge an objection. I don’t object in principle to a Jersey version of the London eye, but while the wheel is not yet in the Island, it is not too late to relocate it out of the Waterfront area.
I would like to know precisely why locals living nearby were not consulted on whether they would like this attraction built in what is effectively their front garden, and currently a peaceful place for people to relax.
22 Century Buildings,
Esplanade, St Helier.
Article posted on 19th May, 2008 - 2.59pm