Deputy DLGE Minister Dudley Butt (pictured) says a beauty salon in Sartfell Road in Douglas can continue to operate despite objections from neighbours.

The owners of the cul-de-sac property argued they had enough parking spaces in the driveway to accommodate clients – and only four a day visited the house by appointment.

But their next-door neighbours claimed having the business running next door would ruin their peace and quiet and lower the value of their house.

Their objections led to the planning committee refusing permission for the business, leading to an appeal.

Jason Roberts reports.

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Planning Inspector Michael Hurley said although businesses were allowed to operate in residential areas, he thought parking problems and nuisance would be made worse by the salon.

He recommended the appeal be turned down and the decision of the planning committee to refuse permission be upheld.

But MLC Dudley Butt, standing in for DLGE Minister John Shimmin, said the small number of clients wouldn’t create a significant problem.

He allowed the appeal, giving permission, although only between nine in the morning and three in the afternoon on weekdays.