4 January 2012 · Delegated
Africa House, Woodbourne Road, Douglas, Isle Of Man, IM2 3ap
This application sought permission for roof light and window alterations at Africa House, Woodbourne Road, Douglas, along with the creation of temporary office space and associated staff accommodation within part of the existing building. The site lies within a Conservation Area and is characterised by hipped roofs, vertically proportioned windows, and a substantial stone boundary wall to Woodbourne Road. The property sits considerably lower than the adjacent highway due to the sloping ground, and benefits from a sweeping driveway providing off-street parking. The officer assessed three main issues: the principle of using part of the building as offices, the effect of the alterations on the Conservation Area, and highway matters. The application was permitted by delegated decision on 4 January 2012, subject to three conditions.
The application was permitted on 4 January 2012 under delegated authority. The key planning considerations were whether the use of part of the building as offices was acceptable in principle, whether the proposed alterations would harm the character and appearance of the Conservation Area, and whether there were any highway concerns.
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.
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 permitted shall commence before the expiration of 1 year from the date of this notice.
Condition 2
This permission is temporary only and accordingly the temporary office and associated staff accommodation must be removed and the use must cease on or before 1st January 2017.
Condition 3
This permission relates to roof light and window alteration and creation of temporary office and associated staff accommodation, Africa House, Woodbourne Road, Douglas as shown by 01 Survey, PL01, PL03, PL04, PL07 and PL08 received 20th October 2011.
