Inquiry on development plan to report in September

An independent inspector heard evidence over a two-week period

The findings of a public inquiry into a plan outlining proposed development in part of the Isle of Man will be completed by September after evidence session drew to a close.

Under the Draft Area Plan for the North and West land would be set aside for some open spaces to be developed into residential and employment projects.

The public inquiry, held over the last two weeks by an independent inspector, discussed proposals for a marina in Ramsey, housing density in Peel and sports provision.

Inquiry inspector Brian Sims will now compile a report based on the oral and written evidence, which will put forward recommendations on changes that may need to be made.

The draft plan outlines area for use for residential and employment projects in Ramsey, Glen Mona, Andreas, Jurby, Bride, Kirk Michael, St John's, Foxdale, and Peel.

'Legal protections'

On Friday, the inquiry heard from individuals seeking permission for a marina and mixed-use development in Ramsey.

Giving evidence, Marlene Maska said the marina project had the "island's best interests" in mind and it would provide flats, "respite" for ships, and "support" local water activities.

The plans would see development on Ramsey South Beach, land which is not currently zoned.

But the plans received opposition from both the Department for Environment, Food and Agriculture and Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT), as the area formed part of the Ramsey Bay marine nature reserve.

David Bellamy from MWT said the area was protected under the Wildlife Act and voiced concerns that development in a nature reserve would "undermine all legal and policy protections" to similar areas across the island.

The inquiry had previously heard from local sports clubs representatives in both Ramsey and Peel who argued that under the area plan, not enough land had been designated for sports facilities.

Affordable housing provision was also discussed during the inquiry, with concerns raised that it had not been specified in the plan.

Once the findings of the inquiry have been considered, and subject to its adoption by the Cabinet Office, the next stage of the plan will go to Tynwald for consideration.