Future of North Barrule triskelion to be decided by planning

Manx Utilities wants to clarify the planning status of the feature

The future of a landmark on North Barrule is going to be decided by the Planning Department.

Manx Utilities, which owns the land, has submitted an application for a Certificate of Lawfulness in relation to the Three Legs of Man feature there.

The Triskelion on the side of the hill is made up of hundreds of painted stones and has been there since 2019.

It was created by Bryan Callister, who believed it could become a tourist landmark.

After it was repainted on more than one occasion without Manx Utilities' permission, a number of complaints were made and questions asked about planning compliance.

It says as the landowner, it has a responsibility to manage the land appropriately and follow relevant planning requirements.

It's now asking for the certificate to clarify the planning status of the feature, which will determine whether the feature is lawful under planning legislation rather than seeking permission for any new works.

Manx Utilities says it recognises the strength of feeling and public interest in the future management of the site, and the cultural meaning the sign holds for many people in the Isle of Man.

While it insists it remains neutral regarding its presence, it says if the landmark is found to be breaching any laws then it could be open to planning enforcement.

Some of the factors that will inform the decision include:

• Strong community support for retaining the Triskelion, expressed widely on social media and in discussions with local landowners.
• The need for clear and transparent guidance regarding the feature’s legality.
• Previous statements of support from Lezayre Commissioners.
• Practical management considerations, given the site’s accessibility to the public, its use by a tenant farmer, and limited day to day presence by Manx Utilities.
• A desire to discourage further unauthorised repainting by ensuring a clear, formal process is followed.

While the application is being processed, Manx Utilities is going to install signs to make it clear the stones are on private property and can't be repainted without permission.

Manx Utilities says it remains committed to acting responsibly and lawfully, while respecting the views of the community and the importance of the Island’s cultural heritage.