Public inquiry to be launched into ‘draft area plan for the North and West’

An independent planning inspector is expected to take evidence in July

A public inquiry is being launched to examine a series of proposed changes to the draft area plan for the North and West including a set of recommendations for additional development sites.

It's scheduled to begin in July and will be headed up by an independent planning inspector whose identity has not yet been disclosed.

Papers published today (22 March) put forward plans on parts of the draft plan and include changes to some of the ‘evidence papers’ which were initially published as part of the draft plan consultation.

Among the proposals include addition of new development sites and associated development briefs.

‘Minor corrections and amendments’ also form part of the updates.

A number of development briefs are said to have been expanded for sites already identified in the draft plan.

Submissions to a public consultation, which ran between June and September 2022, are said to have ‘informed’ the proposed changes.

Work carried out by the Cabinet Office and Housing and Communities Board have also contributed with hopes of addressing future housing demand.

All residents are welcome to attend the inquiry but those hoping to present written, or oral, evidence are required to register in advance; you can do that HERE.

Exact locations and the specific date the public inquiry will get underway will be announced in due course.

MLC Diane Kelsey – member of the Cabinet Office with responsibility for planning policy - said: "The Area Plan for the North and West, once approved, will be a vital tool when planning decisions are being made for the foreseeable future.

"It brings together in a single update a large number of older and disparate local plans.

"Following on from the earlier public consultation I encourage anyone who is interested to engage in the upcoming Public Inquiry.

"People can contribute in advance, register to speak to the independent inspector during the inquiry, or simply attend the proceedings once the inquiry is underway.

"We want to ensure the plan, once approved, accurately reflects what is needed by the communities and businesses in the North and West of the Isle of Man."