Candidates with knowledge of the Island and a willingness to serve in public life are sought for a position on the Planning Committee.

Straightforward planning applications are determined at officer level but the Planning Committee considers applications for developments that are above a certain size or are more complex.

Around one in six applications goes to the committee for determination.

Three vacancies on the committee were advertised in the autumn but only two positions were filled.
Richard Ronan MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘In re-advertising the position, we hope to attract interest from a cross-section of the population.

‘We have a wealth of business and professional competence on the committee at the moment but we hope to increase the diversity and community representation.’

The Minister said: ‘While no formal qualifications are needed, it’s desirable that applicants have knowledge of the Island and experience in the private, public or third sectors or working with groups.

‘Perhaps more important are the attributes we would look for.

‘The Planning Committee performs an important role in public life and its decisions impact on people’s lives and livelihoods.

‘Committee members must be keen to do their best for the Island and must be capable of understanding policy, seeing subjects from all angles and acting impartially.

‘They must be resilient, given the high profile planning has, and be confident dealing with complex and emotive issues.’

The committee meets fortnightly, usually on a Monday. Agendas are sent out a week in advance and can involve considerable preparatory reading. However, the Minister said: ‘In line with the Government’s Digital Strategy, planning makes full use of online services and members can use this for their reading and research.’

Committee members – who cannot be Members of Tynwald or local authorities – are appointed for five years.

They receive an induction and ongoing support. Legislation and standing orders guide their work.

On appointment they must complete a register of interests – eg property they own, businesses they run – so conflicts of interest can be avoided.

Committee members receive an allowance of ?78 per meeting plus travelling expenses.

For an information pack about planning committee membership and an application form, visit www.gov.im/categories/planning-and-building-control/planning-applications/planning-committee-meetings/planning-committee-membership/, email planning@gov.im or ring 01624 685910. 

Details of the job can also be found at www.jobtrain.co.uk/iomgovjobs/default.aspx using reference DOEF-03486.

Application forms should be returned to DEFA, Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale Road, St John’s, IM4 3AS or emailed to planning@gov.im. 

They can be accompanied by a CV and must be submitted by 27th May 2016.

Interviews will take place on 13th June 2016.