Installation of rooflights to No 7, Harbour House, The Quay, Castletown
relevant to the current application
18 May 2021 · Delegated
Ellan Vannin, The Quay, Castletown, Isle Of Man, IM9 1ld
This application sought permission for external works at Ellan Vannin, Packet House, and Solomon's Corner on The Quay in Castletown. The works included re-roofing, re-rendering, installation of replacement windows, replacement fascias, and rainwater goods. The site comprises three connected or closely related historic buildings sharing a distinctive appearance — white painted rendered walls with blue-painted cills and detailing. The central planning question was whether the proposed works would preserve the registered building's special architectural or historical interest, with particular attention given to the replacement of windows. The application was approved by a Principal Planner under delegated authority, with four conditions attached. It was considered alongside a related listed building consent application (21/00236/CON).
The application was approved by a Principal Planner acting under delegated authority. The key planning question was whether the proposed works would preserve the character and special architectural or historical interest of the registered building. The works were found to be acceptable on that basis.
Environment Policy 32
Extensions or alterations to a Registered Building which would affect detrimentally its character as a building of special architectural or historic interest will not be permitted.
Environment Policy 34
In the maintenance, alteration or extension of pre-1920 buildings, the use of traditional materials will be preferred.
Environment Policy 35
Within Conservation Areas, the Department will permit only development which would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the area
lew LDHP LDHP e Arbory Location Former Designation Area Plan Designation Symbol on Proposals Map (3) and Inset Maps (4-7) Parville, Ballabeg (Registered Building 235), Arbory LDHP LDHP f Balladoole House and The Granary, Arbory LDHP LDHP g Rushen Location Former Designation Area Plan Designation Symbol on Proposals Map (3) and Inset Maps (4-7) Ballagawne (Greenacres), Ballagawne Road, Rushen LDHP LDHP h Kentraugh, Rushen LDHP LDHP i Proposed Low Density Housing in Parkland An area to the East and West of Phildraw Road, Malew, as shown on Inset Map 4 Appendix 4 (a): Groups of Houses in the Countryside Survey (2009) Assessments of individual groups: (a) Cregneash: (i) Description: Cregneash comprises a group of traditional buildings clustered around the church, and set on the saddle between Meayll Hill and Cronk ny Arrey. Some of the buildings are used as part of the Cregneash Folk Museum. (ii) Assessment: It is indicated at paragraph A.3.7 of Appendix 3 to the Isle of Man Strategic Plan that "Cregneash may also be judged to have the characteris tics of a village, but as the National Folk Museum it is subject to special consideration, seeking to preserve and protect the authenticity and integrity of the village and its setting." However, it would be more accurate to refer to Cregneash as "the set ting for the National Folk Museum" rather than "the National Folk Museum ". The introduction of additional dwellings, necessarily constructed some 100 years or more later than any existing dwelling in the village, would clearly be inimical to preserving th e authenticity and integrity of the present group and its value as the setting for the Folk Museum. Additional dwellings are not therefore proposed. (b) The Howe/Glen Chass: (i) Description: The Howe comprises a group of dwellings and farm buildings ar ound the chapel on the north side of the road to The Sound. Just to the east, scattered either side of the road down to Fistard are the dwellings comprising Glen Chass. These linked groups have a sense of identity, arising in part from the chapel and in part from the topographical setting. The groups are close to Port St Mary, but clearly within the countryside. Apart from the chapel, there are no public buildings. (ii) Assessment: These groups are not in themselves sustainable settlements, and are not far enough away from Port St Mary or Port Erin to generate a valid local need for housing. In the case of The Howe, further development would be likely to extend or consolidate the existing ribbon development along The Sound Road, whilst in the case of Glen Chass, the access road is narrow and difficult, especially for public service vehicles. In these circumstances, additional dwellings are not proposed for The Howe or Glen Chass. (c) Ballakilpheric/Cronk e Dhooney: (i) Description: Grouped quite comp actly to the west and east of the still -active chapel are two collections of dwellings and farm buildings, some of which are comparatively modern. The group is some 1.5 km from the Colby main road, up a winding and sometimes narrow road. The sense of place arises largely from the chapel at the crossroads, but there are no other public facilities or amenities. (ii) Assessment: Whilst a small number of additional dwellings could be added without visual detriment to either the group or its setting, the group is not sustainable, is served by a poor access road, and is not distant enough from Colby to generate a valid local need for housing. Additional dwellings are not therefore proposed. (d) Earystane: (i) Description: Earystane comprises a collection of dwellings scattered along the road between Ballamoar and Ballacannell. The distinctive, finely coursed stonework of some of the buildings, including the former chapel, lends a sense of unity to this interesting upland settlement. The group is some 2.5 km from the main Colby Road, is served by only a narrow road, and has no public facilities or amenities. (ii) Assessment: Further dwellings would clearly not be sustainable, and would reduce the interest and attraction of the existing group. Road access is poor. Additional dwellings are not therefore proposed. (e) St Marks: (i) Description: St Marks is a designated Conservation Area, which includes some of the surrounding countryside. The buildings include the church, a chapel, the former school rooms , and a number of dwellings clustered around the village green. The spaces between the buildings contribute positively to the character of the settlement, helping to integrate it with its immediate rural environment. The undeniable sense of place arises not only from the disposition of the buildings and spaces, but also from the location at the meeting of several rural roads. (ii) Assessment: The Character Appraisal statement for the Conservation Area indicates that "Whilst new development might not be ru led out, detailed and careful assessment of any proposed develo
POLICY RB/3 General criteria applied in considering registered building applications
The issues that are generally relevant to the consideration of all registered building applications are:-
POLICY RB/3 General criteria applied in considering registered building applications The issues that are generally relevant to the consideration of all registered building applications are:- • The importance of the building, its intrinsic architectural and historic interest and rarity, relative to the Island as a whole and within the local context; • The particular physical features of the building (which may include its design, plan, materials or location) which justify its inclusion in the register; descriptions annexed to the entry in the register may draw attention to features of particular interest or value, but they are not exhaustive and other features of importance, (e.g. Interiors, murals, hidden fireplaces) may come to light after the building's entry in the register; • The building's setting and its contribution to the local scene, which may be very important, e.g. Where it forms an element in a group, park, garden or other townscape or landscape, or where it shares particular architectural forms or details with other buildings nearby (including other registered buildings).
POLICY RB/5 ALTERATIONS AND EXTENSIONS
In considering whether to grant planning approval for development which affects a registered building or its setting
POLICY RB/5 ALTERATIONS AND EXTENSIONS In considering whether to grant planning approval for development which affects a registered building or its setting and in considering whether to grant registered building consent for any works, the Department shall have special regard to the desirability of preserving the building or its setting or any features of special architectural or historic interest which it possesses. Registered building consent is required for the building's alteration in any way which would affect its special architectural or historic character. There will be a general presumption against alteration or extension of registered buildings, except where a convincing case can be made, against the criteria set out in this section, for such proposals. Applicants for registered building consent for alteration or extension to a registered building must be able to justify their proposals. They will be required to show why the works which would affect the character of the registered building are desirable or necessary and they should provide full information to enable the Department to assess the likely impact of their proposals on the special architectural or historic interest of the building and on its setting. Where registered buildings are the subject of successive applications for alteration or extension, consideration will also be given to the cumulative affect upon the building's special interest as a result of several minor works which may individually seem of little consequence.
Planning Circular 1/98
The Alteration and Replacement of Windows Category (A) Registered Buildings
Planning Circular 1/98 # THE ALTERATION AND REPLACEMENT OF WINDOWS The Department of Infrastructure Planning And Building Control Division Murray House Mount Havelock Douglas Isle of Man IM1 2SF July 1998 # THE ALTERATION AND REPLACEMENT OF WINDOWS ## INTRODUCTION 1. This Planning Circular sets down the Department's policies in respect of the alteration or replacement of windows. These policies vary according to the age, merit and location of the building. For ease of use, the Circular divides buildings into several categories, and sets out the policies and reasoning for each category. ## NEED FOR PLANNING APPROVAL 2. This Circular should be read in conjunction with the recent Permitted Development Order (S.D. 664/97). The effect of the Order is that, with certain exceptions, the installation of a window in an existing aperture in a building erected after 1920 does not require planning approval. The exceptions are - a) Where the building is a registered building or in a conservation area, or in an area in respect of which the Planning Committee has passed a resolution to the effect that planning approval is required for such work; or b) Where the work would be in breach of a condition imposed on the grant of planning approval. ## GENERAL REASONING 3. The appearance of any building is strongly influenced by the detailing of its windows. The character and integrity of a building are usually best preserved by the retention and repair of the original windows, or, if this is not possible, the installation of replacements which respond suitably to the original design. In this context, "original" means those windows which were installed in the building at the time of its construction. If you are in doubt as to whether the existing windows are the originals, the staff in the Office of Planning may be able to give advice. ## BUILDING CATEGORIES 4. For the purposes of this Circular, buildings have been divided into the following categories:- a) Registered Buildings b) Buildings in Conservation Areas c) Buildings erected before 1921 and not falling within a) or b) which have largely retained their original character d) Other buildings erected before 1921 e) Buildings constructed after 1920 which do not fall into category a) or b) and which are not subject to previous planning conditions restricting the installation of replacement windows. Subsequent paragraphs of this Circular deal with each category in turn. ## Category a) REGISTERED BUILDINGS 5. Policy If the original windows are still in place they should preferably be repaired. If repair is impracticable, replacement windows MUST BE THE SAME as the originals in all respects, including the method of opening, materials and detailed design. This policy will be strictly applied other than where the particular circumstances are so exceptional as to justify a relaxation. Reasons for Policy: Registered Buildings are those buildings which are judged to be of special architectural or historic interest and which are already entered into the Protected Buildings register. Because of their special status, these buildings merit particular care and any work carried out by way of repair or alteration requires Registered Building Consent. Planning Approval and Registered Building Consent ARE ALWAYS required. Category b) BUILDINGS IN CONSERVATION AREAS 6. Policy If the original windows are in place they should preferably be repaired. If repair is impracticable, replacement windows which would be readily visible from a public thoroughfare MUST HAVE THE SAME method of opening as the originals. Whatever the material used in their construction, the windows MUST HAVE THE SAME pattern and section of glazing bars and the same frame sections as the original windows. Windows not readily visible from a public thoroughfare must have the same or similar pattern of glazing bars as the originals, but not necessarily the original method of opening, whatever the material used in the construction. Reasons for Policy: The Department has a duty to determine which parts of the Island are areas of special architectural or historic interest, the character of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance, and shall by order designate such areas as Conservation Areas. Planning Approval is required for all external works to properties in Conservation Areas to ensure that any proposals are in keeping with not only the individual building, but the special character and quality of the area as a whole. Planning Approval IS REQUIRED for alteration or replacement of window in the category of buildings. Category c) BUILDINGS ERECTED BEFORE 1921 AND NOT FALLING WITHIN CATEGORIES a) OR b) WHICH HAVE LARGELY RETAINED THEIR ORIGINAL CHARACTER 7. For ease of use, this category has been divided into two, based on the location of the building: i) Buildings in an Urban Setting
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
ices, our infrastructure and our health and social well-being. Bringing the Area Plan for the East into operation remains one of the priority actions for planning in the Programme for Government 2016-2021. For much of its development, I contributed through my former Ministerial role in the Department of Infrastructure and it is plain to me now just how widely the Island Development Plan as a whole stretches into policy development in every Department. I appreciate that preparing this Plan has taken time, but the procedural requirements exist to ensure transparency and opportunities for full engagement by Government Departments, Local Authorities, land-owners and developers, local interest groups and residents alike. The Report of the Public Inquiry , published in November 2019 , and the responses to the Modifications, published in February 2020, have shaped the final changes to the content and format of the Plan. It now forms part of the statutory 'Island Development Plan', and specifically provides a local framework for how Douglas and the surrounding settlements are likely to grow, change or stay the same for the remainder of the Plan Period (up to 2026). It replaces all extant plans and is a material consideration when planning applications are determined. Recent events have led to some questions whether the timing is right to release the Plan. I believe firmly that it is. I would like to thank all those who have contributed through out this Plan's development. Such engagement is invaluable and makes for a more rounded and robust plan and ensures matters and sites are fully scrutinised. I look forward to seeing how the Area Plan for the East influences change as we embrace our digital, green and safe Island. Ray Harmer, MHK Minister for Policy and Reform Contents An 'Area' approach to Plan making ..................................................................... 1 The Role of the Area Plan for the East ................................................................ 7 Spatial Vision in the East ................................................................................. 13 Landscape Character and Appearance............................................................... 17 The Natural Environment ................................................................................. 34 The Urban Environment ................................................................................... 48 Transport and Utilities ..................................................................................... 57 Employment ................................................................................................... 71 Town Centres ................................................................................................. 81 Tourism ......................................................................................................... 90 Open Space and Recreation, Education, Health and other Community Facilities .... 95 Residential ................................................................................................... 101 Comprehensive Treatment Areas .................................................................... 127 Appendices Appendix 1 Additional background information on Employment Land 134 Appendix 2 Recommendations set out in the Retail Study 2009 138 Appendix 3 Extracts from the Draft Area Plan for the East 'Household Size and Population Projections Paper DP EP5 (June 2019) An 'Area' approach to Plan making What is an Area Plan? The Cabinet Office has a responsibility, afforded to it by Section 2 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1999, to prepare the Island Development Plan (IDP). The purpose of the IDP is to set out the general 'Policies' in respect of the development and other use of land on the Isle of Man , and also to identify the 'Proposals' which relate to specific places or issues , depending on the particular plan area. The two types of plan prepared and which make up the 'Island Development Plan' are: • a strategic plan, and • one or more area plans. The Isle of Man Strategic Plan 2016 (the Strategic Plan ) was approved by Tynwald on 15th March 2016, coming into operation on 1st April 2016. In hierarchical terms, the strategic plan sits above the area plans in the sense that the proposal in an area plan shall be in general conformity with the strategic plan. The implementation of Policy set out in the Isle of Man Strategic Plan This Area Plan for the East elaborates on the broad policies set out in the Isle of Man Strategic Plan relating them to precise areas of land. The Plan's final form has been shaped by the Report of the Public Inquiry published on 6th December 2019 and the representations received on the proposed Modifications published on 14th February 2020. The Area Plan for the East is made up of a Written Statement (this document) and a series of Maps. The Written Statement contains 'Proposal
Environment Policy 13
Development which would result in an unacceptable risk from flooding, either on or off-site, will not be permitted.
be suitably integrated into the surrounding landscape setting through reasonable mitigation measures and include considering siting, colours, materials, finishes and the general scale. Santon (D13) Landscape Character Area Santon (D13) Landscape Strategy Conserve and enhance: a) the character, quality and distinctiveness of the area, with its wooded valley bottoms and wooded horizons; b) its scattered settlement pattern; c) its Victorian garden and the railway. Key Views Open and expansive views from the higher areas along the rugged coast in the east and inland towards the upland areas over Braaid. Incinerator chimney forms a notable landmark in the immediate area. Glimpsed views framed by vegetation in the valley bottoms and along the main roads where they follow the wooded valley bottoms. Views in the northern part of the area up to the Transmitting Masts on top of Douglas Head hill top. Views from Isle of Man Steam Railway. Landscape Proposal 7 (Santon) In cases where new development is proposed, applications must demonstrate that it can be suitably integrated into the surrounding landscape setting through reasonable mitigation measures and considering siting, colours, materials, finishes and the general scale. Ballamodha, Earystane & St Mark's (D14) Landscape Character Area Ballamodha, Earystane & St Mark's (D14) Landscape Strategy Conserve and enhance the: a) character, quality and distinctiveness of this farmed landscape with various field patter ns defined by different hedges; b) scattered settlement pattern of traditional hamlets, farmsteads and nucleated settlements fringed by trees; c) varied road network enclosed by grassed Manx hedges and roadside vegetation; d) numerous wooded valleys and glens; e) physical structure and setting of upstanding heritage features such as the Silverdale watermill. Key Views Distant views prevented at times by dense woodland in river valleys and by the cumulative screening effect of hedgerow trees, which tend to create wooded horizons. Open and panoramic views out to sea from the higher areas on the upper western parts of the area where there are few trees to interrupt. Port Grenaugh (E1) Landscape Character Area Port Grenaugh (E1) Landscape Strategy Conserve a) the character, quality and distinctiveness of this remote and tranquil coastal area with its rich ecological habitats, open and expansive panoramic views and numerous sites of archaeological importance. Key Views Panoramic and open views out to sea from the Raad ny Foillan coastal footpath, south towards Langness and the School Tower in Castletown and north up the jagged coastline towards Santon Head. Port Soderick (E2) Landscape Character Area Port Soderick (E2) Landscape Strategy Conserve: a) the character, quality and distinctiveness of the tranquil coastal area with its rich ecological habitats, open and expansive panoramic views and numerous sites of archaeological importance. Key Views Open expansive and panoramic views out to sea from Marine Drive and from coastal footpaths including Raad ny Foillan. Views along the rocky coastline over various prominent headlands. View out to sea from Port Soderick framed by rocky cliffs. Douglas Bay (E3) Landscape Character Area Douglas Bay (E3) Landscape Strategy Conserve and enhance: a) the character, quality and distinctiveness of Douglas harbour, promenade and beach; b) the urban setting between two large open headlands c) and to maintain the rich maritime and coastal habitats of the area. Key Views Inter-visibility is possible in numerous places along the sea front from the coastal path around Onchan to the various piers and at the lighthouse at Douglas Point. Views inland are dominated almost exclusively by the built form of Douglas with its terrace of white Victorian hotels, the built form of Onchan on the cliff tops and the various paraphernalia associated with the Harbour. Views along the coast constrained and dominated by the two large headlands that enclose the area. Landscape Proposal 8 (Douglas Bay) The open, expansive headlands of Douglas and Onchan shall be protected from visual intrusion. Clay Head (E4) Landscape Character Area Clay Head (E4) Landscape Strategy Conserve: a) the character, quality and distinctiveness of the tranquil coastal area with its rich ecological habitats, open and expansive panoramic views and numerous sites of archaeological importance. Key Views Channelled views out to sea from the beach at Port Groudle. Extensive panoramic views out to sea and across Douglas Bay from the A11 around Howstrake Camp Electric railway stop and at the periphery of the settlement of Onchan. Glimpsed views towards Laxey Bay and up to the Northern Uplands over heathland from the eastern end of Clay Head Road. Landscape Proposal 9 (Clay Head) The open, expansive panoramic views across Douglas Bay and towards Port Groudle appreciated from the Howstrake Camp Elec
Condition 1
The development hereby approved shall be begun before the expiration of four years from the date of this decision notice.
Condition 2
No development shall commence until a schedule of materials and finishes and samples of the materials to be used in the construction of the external surfaces, including roofs, have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Department. The development shall not be carried out unless in accordance with the approved details.
Condition 3
No development shall commence until details of the colour and texture of the render have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Department. The development shall not be carried out unless in accordance with the approved details.
Condition 4
Requires the submission of roof light details Details of the proposed roof light (s), i.e. type and size, shall be submitted to and approved in writing by Department prior to their installation. The new roof light(s) shall be of a design which, when installed, shall not project forward of the general roof surface (and shall have a surround of a dark, matt finish). The roof light(s) shall be installed in accordance with the approved details and thereafter maintained.
Registered Building Consent for external works to include re-roofing, re-rendering, installation of replacement windows, replacement fascias and rainwater goods (in association with 21/00234/GB)
runs contemporaneously
alteration to existing dwelling to revert to two dwellings
relevant to the current application
alteration to existing dwelling to revert to two dwellings
relevant to the current application
Registered Building Consent for internal alterations to dwelling (RB no 42)
relevant to the current application
alterations, installation of replacement roof tiles and replacement bay window to dwelling
approved by the Planning Committee on 18 May 2015
alterations, installation of replacement roof tiles and replacement bay window to dwelling
approved by the Planning Committee on 18 May 2015
Installation of rooflights to No 7, Harbour House, The Quay, Castletown
relevant to the current application
Proposed dormer window, Harbour House, 7 The Quay, Castletown
relevant to the current application
Installation of dormer window to front elevation (Resubmission) (in association with 05/00386/CON) to No 7, Harbour House, The Quay, Castletown
relevant to the current application
relevant to the current application
relevant to the current application
Registered Building Consent for the installation of replacement roof lights on front elevation (In association with 06/01407 GB), No 7, Harbour House, The Quay, Castletown
relevant to the current application
Installation of replacement roof lights on front elevation (In association with 06/01408CON), No 7, Harbour House, The Quay, Castletown
relevant to the current application