12 October 2018 · Delegated
Minorca Chapel, Minorca Hill, Laxey, Isle Of Man, IM4 7dp
Permission was granted for the installation of a timber raised balcony deck at Minorca Chapel, Minorca Hill, Laxey. The property is a converted former church building now used as a residential dwelling with a split-level layout, set within a mainly low-density residential area and largely surrounded by trees and tall hedging. The officer's assessment focused on two main issues: the effect of the balcony on the character and appearance of the site and its surroundings, and the potential impact on neighbouring residents. Both were considered acceptable, and the application was approved with one condition. The site has a planning history of four previous applications, including an earlier approval for a timber staircase at the rear of the dwelling.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture approved the application on 12 October 2018. The key planning considerations were the effect on the character and appearance of the site and surroundings, and the impact on neighbouring properties. Both were found to be acceptable.
Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016
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
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
Condition 1
The development hereby approved shall be begun before the expiration of four years from the date of this decision notice.
Internal alterations and provision of new window
specifically material in the assessment of the current application
Installation of replacement hardwood windows, installation of French doors and creation of new window to east elevation
specifically material in the assessment of the current application
External alterations to dwelling
specifically material in the assessment of the current application
Erection of an external fire escape staircase and installation of roof lights to dwelling
specifically material in the assessment of the current application
