Feedback is being sought on proposals that will shape the future of strategic planning and development in the east of the Island.
A public consultation has been launched today, Friday 25 May 2018, into the Draft Area Plan for the East. The documents, written statement and maps are available to view on the Government consultation hub.
The Draft Area Plan for the East is the local implementation of the policies and vision set out in the Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016. Subject to Tynwald approval, it will replace the local plans currently in place for Douglas, Onchan, Braddan, Marown, Santon, Laxey and Lonan.
Proposals focus on the allocation of new land for housing and employment uses, along with the application of planning law and policies to encourage the regeneration of brownfield sites, which can be designated for comprehensive treatment.
The Draft Plan also earmarks sites that could be held in reserve to meet future demand for development and highlights the need for careful management of the local landscape and environment.
The intention is to support vibrant residential and business areas that enable the Isle of Man to grow and prosper sustainably.
Policy and Reform Minister Chris Thomas MHK said:
‘The Draft Plan is vitally important for the Island and its ability to meet the needs of current and future generations. It will be at the heart of strategic planning in the east, influencing where new houses and business premises are built and where infrastructure and public services are located.’
He added:
‘Highlighting the significance of land zoning during the Area Plan process was a recommendation of the Tynwald Select Committee I chaired after I picked up a Petition for Redress about planning. It is an issue that can have a major impact on individuals and the communities they live in, so it is important for people to look at what is being proposed and give us their views.’
Comments can be submitted in writing to AreaPlanForTheEast@gov.im or to Planning Policy, Government Office, Bucks Road, Douglas, IM1 3PN.
In addition to the consultation hub, the documents and maps can be accessed at the Welcome Centre in the Sea Terminal and the Tynwald Library. Public drop-in sessions will also be arranged during the consultation period, which runs until Friday 31 August.
The Draft Plan for the East has been informed by the initial Call for Sites, where land owners and developers were invited to put forward sites for consideration, and the Preliminary Publicity, which encouraged public feedback on the nominated sites.
The Cabinet Office will review all responses to the current consultation and make any appropriate revisions to the proposals. Public hearings will then be held and the advice of the Planning Inspectorate taken into account ahead of the Draft Area Plan for the East being presented to Tynwald for approval.
Minister Thomas commented:
‘Planning is central to Government’s efforts to support sustainable growth. We are looking to the future and the implications of growing the Island’s economy and working population. The eastern area has our highest concentration of people and businesses, so it’s important we have a coherent and comprehensive Draft Plan as soon as possible.’
