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Voluntary redundancies in Jersey's planning and environment department will save nearly £300,000 each year.

Planning minister Senator Freddie Cohen said it was an opportunity to streamline the management structure.

This comes against a background of voluntary redundancies and the retirement of Peter Thorne, director of planning.

Senator Cohen said three long-serving officers had been promoted to directors, but at existing salaries.

Peter Thorne was one of Jersey's most experienced planning officers and is retiring after nearly 30 years of service.

He has been involved in three Island Plans and has overseen the new Planning Law.

Senator Cohen said his knowledge of the island and its buildings was encyclopaedic and he would be greatly missed.

Peter Le Gresley has been appointed as director of development control and Morris Roscouet will become director for building control.

Kevin Pilley has been appointed as a director of planning policy and projects.

The new directors will report to Andrew Scate, chief officer and chief planning officer.