Arbory and Rushen Commissioners receive planning approval for new leisure area

It's also hoping to create a memorial for former member David Radcliffe

Arbory and Rushen Commissioners has received planning permission for its recreational area in Ballakilley.

The local authority is hoping to have a ‘family focused’ area including a BMX track and dog walking zone.

The commissioners received the notice for the approval of the field and now have four years to start the development.

Deputy Clerk David Ronan said the permission had conditions which included the pedestrian entrances being implemented before the footpaths are used and the submission of a landscape plan to ensure no invasive species are introduced.

The plan also includes wildflower planting and creating grass mounds as a play area for children.

It comes after the commissioners received feedback from residents over the years about what they want to see in the park.

Also on the agenda at last night's meeting were two requests from residents about improving the street lighting across the parish.

The commissioners were asked by a resident in Surby if the lights could be switched on at 6am rather than 6:30am.

Clerk Phil Gawne said the resident felt it was ‘dangerous’ as people are often walking their dogs.

Commissioner Jane Glover asked how much money the additional half an hour would cost the local authority and the clerk confirmed he was waiting for a response from Manx Utilities.

Two residents from Friary Park had complained that some of the lights in the estate are ‘significantly’ dimmer than others.

Chair Kirrie Jenkins asked if the lights were a set standard and the clerk confirmed that there are different standards for different roads.

The clerk recommended the board visit the street to have a look at the problem and the board agreed.

A discussion was also held about a memorial tribute to David Radcliffe who died last year.  

Mr Radcliffe served on the commissioners for 16 years and was a representative on the Southern Sheltered Housing Joint Board and the Southern Swimming Pool Board during his time.

The local authority is looking to create a memorial with the Rushen authority’s logo and plant some flowers in a verge on Magnetic Hill.

However the clerk told the board there has been a delay with the design of the logo and needs to confirm with the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture about planting.

Arbory and Rushen Commissioners will next meet on Wednesday 18 March.