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Latest draft of Eastern Area Plan unveiled

Document has fundamental implications for settlements around the Island's capital

A document which will have a major influence over the future shape and size of towns and villages in the East of the Island have been unveiled.

The latest draft of the Eastern Area Plan, which lays out what and where developers can build, has been released today (25 May) by the Manx government.

The plan could have fundamental implications for smaller settlements in and around the Island's capital, and is likely to provoke reaction from the business community, local authorities and the wider public.

What's in the plan?  

It spans Douglas, Onchan, Braddan, Marown, Santon, Laxey and Lonan, an area covering around half of the Island's population.

Certain areas have been singled out for 'comprehensive treatment', including Villiers Square, parts of Onchan and Peel Road in Douglas. Others have been earmarked as 'strategic reserve' sites to cater for future demand.

The plan incorporates maps on flood risk, environmental impact, and community assessments.

How was it put together?

The document was formulated by the planning policy unit within the Cabinet Office, who are now looking for feedback.

The public have three months to comment on the potential impact of the zoning, existing covenants and any anomalies in the plan.

The latest consultation follows a 'call for sites' and a round of 'preliminary publicity', which drew concerns from some residents that the rural nature of their communities could be under threat.

Policy and Reform Minister Chris Thomas MHK says the document, which it's hoped will be finalised by 2019, will layout a 'planned vision' for the East.

Mr Thomas insists the plan aims to 'balance the demands of developers and the natural environment', whilst supporting government's policy of growing the economically active population.

How can you submit your views?

The consultation, along with all the relevant documents and maps, can be accessed through consult.gov.im.

The plan is also available to view at the Welcome Centre in the Sea Terminal, and the Tynwald Library. Drop-in sessions can also be arranged with the planning office during the consultation period.

Written submissions can be sent to AreaPlanForTheEast@gov.im or sent to Planning Policy, Government Office, Bucks Road, Douglas, IM1 3PN

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