The discovery of animal bones at a site in Onchan has led to the delay of a planning hearing.

Plans submitted by the Department of Local Government and the Environment to build 24 homes in Ridgeway Road were due to be considered on Thursday.

However, the discovery means the hearing has been postponed.

It's believed the bones have been there for more than 20 years and, although there's no risk to the health of those living nearby or any potential development of the site, the department says it has to carry out necessary precautions and investigate potential contamination.

Minister John Shimmin says a new date for the planning hearing will be arranged in due course.

This site was acquired several years ago from the Liverpool Roman Catholic Archdiocese and the department believes it's in an area of high demand for housing.

A number of residents in the area support first-time buyer homes, but are opposing the plans due to density and height concerns, as well as worries about parking and possible traffic congestion.