Plan to protect island's heritage landmarks revealed

Groudle Glen Viaduct was constructed in 1894

The Legislative Chambers and Douglas Railway Station Workshops are among thirteen Manx landmarks proposed for protection under registered building status.

Last month, the Department for Environment, Food and Agriculture issued proposals to register notices, the first step in protecting buildings or structures under Manx law.

Citing their potential architectural or historical interest, other structures include the Royal Chapel in St John's, the former Peel Railway Station which is now part of the House of Manannan and Moore's Bridge in Laxey.

Defa Minister Claire Barber said: "Registration plays an important role in recognising and preserving the character of our communities."

The Isle of Man's Legislative Chambers which was built in 1894

Registered buildings are protected by law from demolition or alteration affecting their character unless specific consent is granted.

More than half of the proposed sites are part of the island's heritage rail network, with others including former railway station - Kirk Michael fire station, Douglas railway station's signal box, Groudle viaduct and the Laxey and Ballure Manx Electric Railway viaducts.

The Royal Chapel in St John's is one of the thirteen being considered

"These proposals reflect the depth and diversity of the Island's built heritage, from the grandeur of the Legislative Chambers to the engineering legacy of our historic railways," Barber continued.

The Former School of Art in Douglas, which is now Kensington Arts along with the stone bridge in Ramsey and monk's bridge in Malew are also among the proposed structures.

The public is able to submit their views on the proposals to the building conservation team until 15 August.