Dates set for Ramsey boundary extension public inquiry

Proposals put forward by Ramsey commissioners would see the town's footprint nearly double

A public inquiry into plans to double the footprint of a northern town's boundary will take place next month.

Evidence sessions on Ramsey's boundary extension proposals are set to take place over three days from 22 to 24 January.

The local authority believes the town is at "capacity" and wants to expand into parts of Lezayre and Garff.

The sittings will take place at the Ramsey Park Hotel from 10:00 until 16:30 GMT each day.

It follows a pre-inquiry hearing held in October, which set out the terms of the inquiry's scope.

Neighbouring local authorities previously branded the expansion plans, which encroach into parts of their areas, "territorial".

The land earmarked in Garff features protected woodland that is currently in Maughold, including Lhergy Frissel and Claughbane Woods, while Lezayre would lose part of Glen Auldyn to the town.

Advocate Peter Taylor has been appointed chairman for the inquiry, which is set to hear from a number of interested parties from the areas affected, including Ayre and Michael MHK Tim Johnston.

The sessions will be open to members of the public.

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