An age-friendly Jersey could include more 10-min villages

A Jersey politician wants to see more '10-minute neighbourhoods' to cater for the elderly.

Deputy Inna Gardiner wants older islanders to be put at the centre of future developments, with the introduction of an 'Age-Friendly Infrastructure Framework'.

The idea is for it to be delivered at the same time as the existing 'Delivering Investment into the Public Realm' initiative - an agreed plan to upgrade public spaces.

The framework would ensure all planning applications, including for the development and refurbishment of public spaces, meet 'age-friendly' requirements.

She says this is not an issue to leave for the future; it needs to start happening now.

"Our island is ageing and many of our islanders are already struggling."

"Uneven pavements, bus stops without seating or shelter, confusing signage - these may seem small but [if corrected] it can change someone's day or even life."

Deputy Inna Gardiner

Developers would have to consider anti-slip pavements, step-free access, high-contrast signs, and the adequacy of lighting, among other aspects, to ensure public spaces are accessible to everyone.

Deputy Gardiner also wants transportation included in the framework.

She is calling for more upgraded bus shelters with real-time audio and visual updates, benches with armrests and shelter from the weather, and live audio and visual updates on upcoming bus stops whilst people are using the bus.

"It's actually about dignity, independence and respect for our elderly residents, and one day - for ourselves.

"If people can keep being independent for longer with these adjustments, it can keep people happier and healthier for longer."

The backbencer wants the creation of more '10-minute neighbourhoods' in Jersey, which deliver everything someone would need within a short walk.

These villages include a GP, pharmacy, grocery shop and green spaces to enjoy, all within a 10-minute walk.

"In Paris, they have 15-minute neighbourhoods.  Now Jersey is smaller, but what does this mean?

"When we're planning our next housing developments, let's see that housing developments for the elderly populations have 10-minute or 5-minute walks [to the] GP, pharmacy, or supermarket, or even a small green space like a park."

The neighbourhood's shops would also have age-friendly layouts and customer service training.

Improvements to town, parish centres and parks are also included in the proposal, with better accessibility in public toilets and sheltered seating every few hundred metres.

The deputy's proposals will be put to a States Assembly vote.