The Department of Local Government and the Environment has strongly refuted allegations by objectors to the Crossag Farm development in Ballasalla.

Chairman of the Ballasalla and District Residents Association, George Allsebrook claimed that new information had been introduced to the inquiry that should have been disclosed beforehand, and that the Association hadn't had time to consider it. When their application for a deferment was initially refused they walked out of the inquiry.

However, the Department says that the documentation was mostly a written version of the oral evidence to be given by their side, and it was offered in a 'spirit of openness'. DoLGE also maintains that disputed matters relating to the All-Island Strategic Plan had been in the public domain since April.

Minister John Shimmin told Manx Radio this morning (Tues) that as this is a 'live' planning matter it would be inappropriate for him to comment further at this stage.