Members of the public are being asked for their views on how proposed marine developments in the Irish Sea should be discussed and agreed.

The Isle of Man Marine Plan aims to provide a strategic approach to the use of the marine environment, taking into account economic, environmental and social issues.

A major factor of the plan is the development of a simple process for applications for marine developments in Manx territorial waters . . which account for 87% of the Island's total territory.

Offshore energy production is seen as a potentially lucrative income stream for the Manx economy in years to come.

Dr Peter McEvoy,Marine Spatial Planning Project Officer at the DOI, says it's hoped to develop a plan which will maximise any possible benefits for the Island, whilst taking environmental concerns into account . .

The consultation document can be seen at gov.im/ConsultationDetail.gov?id=342 . . . or gov.im/transport/planning/msp/consenting.xml .

You can also email a request to msp@gov.im . . . and printed copies of the consultation document are also available by calling 686301. The closing date for comments is 5pm on Friday 26th of October