The Area Plan for the North and West is a comprehensive planning document for the North and West of the Island. Should it be approved by Tynwald in October, it will come into operation on 1 December 2025, providing a planning framework against which all applications for development will be assessed.
Current, older Local Plans and remaining parts of the 1982 Development Plan, will be replaced.
The Plan sets out appropriate ways of managing and guiding development to meet social, environmental and economic needs. This includes zoning of land enabling development of new homes to meet community demand, doing so in sustainable locations and requiring infrastructure capacity improvements as part of those future developments.
The Plan also supports existing settlements, helping to guide regeneration and enhance vibrancy and vitality in town and village centres. For example, the Plan contains a Comprehensive Treatment Area in Ramsey, which is an important lever to support positive change and a co-ordinated approach to regeneration and placemaking.
The Plan provides for proportionate expansion of both employment land and open space – helping to create healthy, sustainable and vibrant communities across the North and West.
It also sets the scene for the delivery of commitments outlined in the Climate Change Act 2021, ahead of a full review of strategic planning policy.
The final Plan being presented to Tynwald has already been significantly shaped by detailed public engagement. A public inquiry was held in July 2024 and a consultation on the proposed modifications to the Draft Area Plan was held between January and March this year.
- The plan is on the Tynwald Register of Business.
- Read more information about the development of the plan
- Read responses to the proposed modifications consultation online at consult.gov.im
The motion in October is that Tynwald:
- Approves the Town and Country Planning (Area Plan for the North and West) Order 2025 [SD 2025/0180]; and
- Endorses the requirement for masterplans and the use of development briefs in the Plan, and supports the Council of Ministers’ commitment to the production of an integrated review of public service provision by 30 June 2026 that meets the current and projected needs of our communities.
