Why it's 'a great time' to grant greater protections for the Laxey Wheel

Landmark the subject of one of nine Proposal to Register Notices

The Laxey Wheel could soon get greater protections under plans to formally register the landmark.

The iconic structure, which dates back to 1854, is the subject of one of nine Proposal to Register Notices put forward by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture.

As a historical site it already benefits from some protections, however it's not among the list of registered buildings.

The environment, food and agriculture minister says: "It's not a case that it's just been ignored.

"It's just had a lot of preservation work done on it and the point of registration is the point at which it would have to be returned to should it ever deteriorate in the future.

"So actually, registering at a point when it's just had all that work done on it is a really great time to be doing that registration to ensure it's protected at the existing state."

Read more about the recent conservation work HERE.

Clare Barber told Manx Radio why it's the right time for Lady Isabella to be added to the register buildings list:

Other sites being considered for registration include:

• Foxdale Heritage Centre (former Railway Station)
• Leece Museum, Peel
• Ward Library, Peel
• Great Laxey Wheel
• Knockuskey Cottage, Niarbyl Bay
• Grove Museum, Ramsey
• Calf of Man Bird Observatory
• Church Farm, Cregneash
• Karran's Farmstead, Cregneash

Together the proposed buildings span more than three centuries of mining, civic and farming heritage. 

If registered, they’ll be legally protected from demolition or alteration.

A four-week consultation period is underway, during which people can share their views and provide additional information relevant proposed registrations.

Find out more HERE. Registration Process

Minister Barber added: "Registration plays an important role in preserving the character of our communities, and I'd encourage anyone with an interest to take part in the consultation. 

"These proposals reflect the depth and diversity of the Island's built heritage, from the engineering legacy of our historic industries to the quiet continuity of our farming landscapes."

Clare Barber is seeking re-election as MHK for Douglas East in September - the other candidates standing in that constituency are Joney Faragher, Dave Mackey and Andrew Saunders.

Picture credit: Manx Radio