Sea Breezes Properties Ltd, part of the group which also owns Sea Breezes Publications Ltd, publisher of the international monthly shipping magazine Sea Breezes, has confirmed that a planning application has been lodged for the redevelopment of the former Marine Laboratory buildings in Port Erin.
The proposed development includes a Dive Centre, office suites and meeting rooms, but also exciting plans by the Manx Wildlife Trust for a Marine Interpretation Centre. An application for outline planning permission for a later phase, including a hotel, has also been made.
Commenting on the application, Hamish Ross, Chairman of Sea Breezes said: “It has taken some time to get to this stage, but I am convinced that these plans form a sound platform which will secure an exciting and sustainable future for this former centre of excellence for the Isle of Man. They will also give a real boost to Port Erin itself, and act as a catalyst for the regeneration of tourism, especially marine leisure related pursuits. Importantly the plans are very much in keeping with the buildings’ past maritime links.”
As part of the proposed use of the site, the Manx Wildlife Trust anticipates utilising the central section of the building to operate a Marine Interpretation Centre, featuring information, educational exhibits and displays on the marine environment and wildlife around the Isle of Man. Display tanks focusing on local marine life will be included. In addition, it is anticipated that there will be displays on the social history of the marine life of the Isle of Man, and a history of the Port Erin Marine Lab.
Duncan Bridges, Director of the Manx Wildlife Trust commented: “For the past few years we have had thousands of visitors come to see our Marine Touch Tank’s display at the Queenie Festival, and the public interest in marine wildlife and habitats has never been higher than it is now. This application for the future use of the former Marine Lab buildings not only preserves the building itself, but gives the Manx Wildlife Trust a tremendous opportunity to establish a permanent Marine Interpretation facility, providing both a quality public visitor experience, and an all weather facility or marine and environmental education.”
The Minister of Infrastructure, Hon David Cretney MHK, commenting on the project said: “I wish Sea Breezes well with their proposed development of this high profile site in the lovely location of Port Erin. My officers have worked closely with the team to bring these plans to this stage and I look forward to the development progressing”.
