Public asked to help shape planning system

The public is being asked to help shape the planning system.

A wide-ranging consultation seeks views on how planning can respond to the Island’s needs while safeguarding its unique environment.

The consultation honours a pledge in the Programme for Government to create a ‘planning system that supports sustainable growth’.

It follows reviews of the planning system which have highlighted inadequacies.

Fifty-five questions are posed, with ideas being explored including:

• Whether Government should be able to change planning policy more readily to progress its policies
  
  
• Whether more development can take place without the need for planning approval
  
  
• Whether some  projects should be subject to a levy to support local infrastructure
  
  
• Whether powers of compulsory purchase should be used more in acquiring sites for development.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK said:

‘To ensure our continued economic growth and inward investment, we require a high quality and sustainable environment that meets the needs of residents and businesses.

‘This means a planning system that is easy for people to engage and dynamic enough to react to need but not a system that permits development at any cost.’

Chris Thomas MHK, Minister for Policy and Reform, said:

‘The consultation covers how planning policy is created, how the public engages with planning, how applications are made and decided on, the location and quality of development and the conservation and creative re-use of our heritage.

‘We hope those who have used the planning system and/or have an interest in the future shape of the Island will take part in the consultation.’

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture – which is responsible for development management – said:

‘The consultation proposes an evolution of planning in line with Programme for Government. We want to encourage enterprise and opportunity.’

The consultation is at https://consult.gov.im/ and can be completed online.

Inquiries about the consultation can be directed to reviewofplanning@gov.im

Paper copies can be obtained from Murray House at Mount Havelock, Douglas, or the Isle of Man Government Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal and responses should be sent to:

The deadline for responses is Friday 15^th December 2017.