Bid to demolish empty buildings at Leale's Yard

A planning application to demolish empty buildings on the Leale's Yard site has been submitted by the States of Guernsey.

Members of the Policy and Resources Committee (P&R) said the approval of the plan would allow for the creation of a new entrance to the area by the mini roundabout on The Bridge, meaning construction vehicles would not have to pass through car parking areas near the shops to access the area.

P&R said clearing the site and starting development at Leale's Yard is one of the States' "super priorities" for the political term.

In July 2025, the States of Guernsey purchased the brownfield site for £4.5m with a view to regenerating the area.

In January, President of Policy and Resources Committee Lindsay de Sausmarez declared the site would be clear before the end of 2026.

There is already planning permission in place for demolition of most of the buildings on the site, but, if this application is approved, it would allow the buildings to be demolished at the same time, delivering better value for money, P&R said.

"The first step in developing Leale's Yard is to prepare and clear the site," said de Sausmarez.

"That requires planning permission, ecological surveys, and contamination assessments before careful demolition.

"So, there is a significant amount of technical work that needs to happen before anything visible can take place – and that work is already under way."

She added: "The benefits will extend across the wider Braye du Valle, unlocking private investment, creating new spaces for business and the community, generating jobs and helping to bring more social and economic vibrancy back to this important part of the island."

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