29 August 2023 · Delegated
Skerries, Main Road, Kirk Michael, Isle Of Man, IM6 1ed
Permission was granted for two modest works at Skerries, a two-storey corner property on Main Road, Kirk Michael. The proposal involved replacing an upstairs road-facing window with a similar UPVC unit, and removing and rebuilding an existing wooden porch on its existing footprint using part brick and UPVC panels. The property sits within the Kirk Michael conservation area, which made the visual impact of the works a central planning consideration. The officer also assessed whether the changes could harm the amenity of neighbouring properties through overlooking, loss of light, or an overbearing effect. The application was approved by delegated decision, with one condition attached.
The application was approved on 29 August 2023. The key planning considerations were the visual impact of the works on the street scene and the conservation area, and the potential effect on neighbouring properties in terms of overlooking, loss of light, and privacy. The proposal was found acceptable on both counts.
General Policy 2
General Development Considerations (a-n)
General Policy 2: Development which is in accordance with the land-use zoning and proposals in the appropriate Area Plan and with other policies of this Strategic Plan will normally be permitted, provided that the development: (a) is in accordance with the design brief in the Area Plan where there is such a brief; (b) respects the site and surroundings in terms of the siting, layout, scale, form, design and landscaping of buildings and the spaces around them; (c) does not affect adversely the character of the surrounding landscape or townscape; (d) does not adversely affect the protected wildlife or locally important habitats on the site or adjacent land, including water courses; (e) does not affect adversely public views of the sea; (f) incorporates where possible existing topography and landscape features, particularly trees and sod banks; (g) does not affect adversely the amenity of local residents or the character of the locality; (h) provides satisfactory amenity standards in itself, including where appropriate safe and convenient access for all highway users, together with adequate parking, servicing and manoeuvring space; (i) does not have an unacceptable effect on road safety or traffic flows on the local highways; (j) can be provided with all necessary services; (k) does not prejudice the use or development of adjoining land in accordance with the appropriate Area Plan; (l) is not on contaminated land or subject to unreasonable risk of erosion or flooding; (m) takes account of community and personal safety and security in the design of buildings and the spaces around them; and (n) is designed having due regard to best practice in reducing energy consumption. 6.3 Development outside of areas zoned for development
Strategic Policy 4a
Protection of conservation areas
Environment Policy 35
Preserve or enhancement for Conservation Areas
Environment Policy 35: Within Conservation Areas, the Department will permit only development which would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the Area, and will ensure that the special features contributing to the character and quality are protected against inappropriate development. 7.30 Development adjacent to Conservation Areas 7.30.1 It is often the case that important views into and out of a Conservation Area can contribute significantly to its character. It is necessary to assess the impact any development adjacent to conservation areas may have on such views.
Condition 1
The development hereby approved shall be begun before the expiration of four years from the date of this decision notice.
