Guernsey's transport plan to cope with 1,000 homes

The States of Guernsey has published a new transport plan for the north of the Island.

The Better Transport Plan aims to improve transport choice in and around St Sampson, in preparation for a number of new housing developments in the area.

The plan proposes a new network of linked walking and cycling routes to make travelling on foot and by bike safer and easier.

Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, President of Environment and Infrastructure (E&I), said: "However you prefer to travel... we want to give you more choices, more freedom, and safer, less stressful ways to get around."

The States said it would improve public transport as well as the experience for drivers, including adding new one-way systems, and improving junctions and road signage.

It also plans to introduce innovations like car clubs and a new app.

The plan outlines how the States would ensure roads and public transport can cope with the impact of a number of new property developments in the area.

The States expects more than 1,000 new homes to be built over the next few years, as well as new retail, leisure and commercial units as part of the Bridge Regeneration Area and other nearby developments.

It said it recognised current residents' "very reasonable concerns" about additional pressure on the area’s roads, which it said were "already under strain".

Deputy Adrian Gabriel, vice-president of E&I, said: "I live in the north, close to some of the sites earmarked for housing. I’ve also done a lot of driving for business, so I know all too well how unsuitable our roads are.

"It is essential we deliver more housing, but we need to do it in a way that doesn’t make our roads even worse or make people feel even less safe when walking or cycling."

The States said the new transport measures will be delivered by a combination of public and private providers.

Members of the public can comment on the plans until 30 June.

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