THE GOVERNMENT has issued a reminder to the Isle of Man public that there is just over two weeks left to make comments on proposals to cut ‘red tape’ and allow more types of small scale development to take place without the need to apply for planning permission.
The deadline is 5pm on 15th August to submit its views on proposals to amend the Town and Country Planning (Permitted Development) Order 2005.
The proposed new regulations will increase the amount of development that can be undertaken without the need to apply for permission. It will also allow the government to carry out work on certain sites within its ownership such as the hospital, National Sports Centre, Douglas outer harbour or the prison at Jurby.
“This is another example of how the government’s planners are looking to help to stimulate the Manx economy further,” said Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne. “It will provide a welcome boost to the local construction industry by making it easier for residents to improve their homes in certain situations.”
Chairman of the planning committee David Quirk MHK added, “So far there has been a lot of interest in the consultation, with strong views expressed about planning in the Isle of Man. We have had successful meetings with the Island’s local authorities and those working in the construction industry.
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I would now urge those with views to ensure they are heard by submitting a response via the online questionnaire on the Department of Infrastructure’s website.”
The Department welcomes responses from anyone on the proposed amendments. “We are encouraging everyone to respond using the structured online questionnaire which can be accessed at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/S63V9HR. All comments should be submitted to via the website no later than 5.00pm on Monday 15th August 2011.”
To obtain a copy of the consultation document and draft order, contact Jo.Callow@gov.im, or write to her at Planning & Building Control Division, Department of Infrastructure, Murray House, Mount Havelock, Douglas, IM1 2SF. Alternatively, the document can be viewed at http://www.gov.im/transport/ConsultationDetail.gov?id=253.
