Manx National Heritage has won a potentially landmark case to prevent extension to a property at Cregneash.

In a judgment which could have significance for future planning appeals, MNH successfully appealed the decision of the former Local Government Minister, then Rushen MHK John Rimington, to allow a two-storey extension at Cregville in the village.

It lodged a petition of doleance against the Department of Local Government, believing an extension would ‘fundamentally detract’ from the building’s ‘contribution to the character and historical significance of the village’.

However, a number of Cregneash residents argued restrictions were tight and there should be a balance between living in the village and maintaining it as a ‘living museum’.

No new house has been built in Cregneash since 1910.

MNH chairman Martin Moore says the integrity of the national folk museum was under threat and, although legal action was launched reluctantly, he believes the outcome fully vindicates MNH’s action: (audio clip)

Manx Radio has been in touch with the Department and Minister John Shimmin made the following comment:

"The department has received the Deemster’s verdict and will now consider his comments, in view of our current practice, and determine whether there’s any lesson which can be learnt for the future.

Further to that, we will not be drawn on any specific planning application and will therefore be making no further public comment whilst this matter is still ongoing".


(Picture: May Day at Cregneash in 2006)