Hundreds of war memorials in the Isle of Man will benefit from stronger legal protection after Tynwald approved the move this week.
The Island is home to nearly 300 war memorials that each honour the legacy of men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country.
The War Memorials (Planning) (Amendment) Order 2026 corrects gaps and inconsistencies in existing legislation and supports the work of the Preservation of War Memorials Committee in overseeing the safeguarding of memorials. These include large structures, obelisks, stained glass windows and even playing fields.
Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK, who moved the Order, said:
'War memorials hold a special place in Island life, not simply as historic structures, but as places of remembrance and reflection, held in trust for our communities and for future generations. This makes sure the law protecting them works as it should — clearly, consistently, and with confidence.'
The new legislation confirms that the Council of Ministers is the decision-maker for matters relating to registered memorials, supported by a keen committee of volunteers who offer advice and support to custodians and Council of Ministers in this work.
It sits alongside new rules, which were also approved at the May sitting, to form a complete legal framework. Together they clarify the responsibilities of custodians under the Act, but don’t introduce any additional duties on them. They will come into force on 1 June.
