Castletown golf course owner presses case for demolition of hotel

Minister says DEFA could support any local authority bid

The owner of Castletown Golf Links has pledged to go back to the owner of the derelict hotel in the area to try and make progress with the site.

Philip Vermeulen’s company – Langness Golf Course Limited – says it’s tried, and failed, in the past to work with Fort Island Developments Limited which is part of the Dandara Group.

It follows the developer's failed appeal against a planning decision which blocked it from building flats and a small hotel on the site.

You can find out more HERE.

Mr Vermeulen says he will also be speaking to Malew Commissioners, and the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, about ideas for how the existing eyesore could be demolished:

Manx Radio understands Malew Commissioners are meeting today, in private, to discuss possible demolition. 

One group which remains opposed to any development on the site is the Derbyhaven Residents’ Association.

Tim Cullen is the former chairman:

Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Clare Barber upheld the planning inspector’s decision to reject Fort Island Development Limited’s appeal.

She told John Moss they are not ‘anti-planning’ but there is clear policy in place adding that demolition is an option which can be considered:

The Dandara Group has since responded to Manx Radio's request for comment:

"Whilst we are naturally disappointed with the outcome of the appeal – particularly as our planning application was submitted almost six years ago and it has taken until now for a final decision to be reached - we are nonetheless pleased the Inspector reached positive conclusions about the principle of delivering a new hotel with residential development on the site.

"Going forward we look forward to working with the Planning Authority and other parties to produce a re-designed scheme which address the Inspector’s concerns.

"It is clear to everyone the existing building is long overdue for replacement with a modern, well-designed development and we trust the Planning Authority will help us achieve this sooner rather than later."