15 February 2018 · Delegated
Waverley, 23, Hutchinson Square, Douglas, Isle Of Man, IM2 4hp
The application sought approval to install a new Veka composite door and UPVC outer frame at 23 Hutchinson Square, a property within a row of three-and-a-half storey terraced buildings on the north-eastern side of Hutchinson Square, Douglas. The new door is a four-panel design with two solid lower panels and two glazed upper panels, replacing an existing modern door with glazed panels top and bottom. During the assessment process, a concern arose that the proposal would remove a small section of detailed frame above the door. Following discussions with the applicant, a timber moulding was agreed to fit between the door and top light frames, replicating the existing detail. The key planning issue was whether the works would preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the Conservation Area under Environment Policy 35 of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan. Officers concluded that replacing the modern door with a more traditional and appropriately styled door, combined with the agreed moulding detail, would represent an overall enhancement to both the Conservation Area and the individual property.
The proposal was approved because replacing the existing modern door with a more traditional design, and retaining the detailed frame above the door through an agreed timber moulding, was considered an enhancement to the Conservation Area and the individual property. This satisfied Environment Policy 35 of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan, which requires development in Conservation Areas to preserve or enhance their character and appearance.
Environment Policy 35
Within Conservation Areas, the Department will permit only development which would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the Area
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.
Condition 2
Within one month of the door and frame being installed and completed the new moulding to fit between the door and top light frames as submitted on the 13th February 2018 is required to be installed and retained thereafter.
